Review: design, function, and translation of next-generation nanocomposite materials for energy conversion and storage applications

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The urgent transition towards sustainable energy technologies has intensified interest in nanocomposite materials that combine complementary physicochemical properties beyond those achievable with individual components. By integrating multiple nanoscale constituents, nanocomposites enable tailoring of electrical, mechanical, thermal, and interfacial properties, making them promising materials for next-generation energy technologies. This review critically examines recent advances in the rational design, synthesis, and characterisation of nanocomposites for energy conversion, including solar cells and fuel cells, and energy storage, including supercapacitors (SCs) and lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). This review emphasises structure–interface–property–performance relationships and the mechanisms by which nanocomposite architecture influences charge and ion transport, reaction kinetics, structural stability, and device performance. Beyond summarising recent developments, this review critically evaluates emerging material architectures, interfacial engineering strategies, and scalable fabrication approaches, together with the trade-offs between laboratory-scale performance and practical implementation. Finally, it assesses key challenges related to long-term durability, reproducibility, cost, environmental sustainability, and end-of-life considerations. Future research priorities are proposed to guide the development of nanocomposite materials towards durable, scalable, and sustainable energy conversion and storage technologies.