Preface

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have gained tremendous attention from researchers working in different fields owing to their remarkable properties, such as high specific surface area, excellent reactivity and kinetics, superb carrier mobility and thermal conductivity, excellent mechanical and tunable optoelectronic properties, etc. After the discovery of graphene, research in the field of 2D nanomaterials took off and several other materials with 2D morphology were discovered and synthesized by researchers. 2D nanomaterials have been widely utilized in different applications related to energy storage, conversion and generation, environmental remediation, catalysis, etc., by tuning their physiochemical properties, utilizing functionalization, doping, heterojunction and composite formation, and defect engineering techniques. However, information about different 2D nanomaterials, their synthesis and characterization and diverse applications is not available to readers on a single platform. Therefore, this book provides a single resource for readers and focuses on current advances in the rational design, fabrication, characterization, and applications of 2D nanomaterials and their composites for energy storage, energy conversion, and environmental remediation applications. This book emphasizes the utilization and development of simple and cost-effective techniques for the fabrication of 2D nanomaterials and their composites, and discusses the effect of alterations such as surface functionalization, composite formation, defect engineering, bandgap engineering, and phase modulation on their physiochemical properties. Insight into the fundamental mechanisms of different reactions responsible for energy storage, energy conversion, and environmental remediation (solar cells, batteries, supercapacitors, green H₂, green NH₃, CO₂ capture and conversion, and wastewater treatment) is provided. In addition to the in-depth investigation of the practical applications of 2D nanomaterials, the challenges of large-scale commercialization are also discussed. Finally, the environmental impact, prospective solutions, and future endeavors in 2D nanomaterials research, to spur further growth in sustainable energy and environmental remediation applications, are discussed.

This book will be a valuable reference for new researchers, academics, policymakers, engineers, and undergraduate and postgraduate students learning about next-generation 2D nanomaterials with improved performance for the design and development of sustainable energy and environment-oriented applications. Finally, Dr Ashish Kumar (Editor) and Dr Narinder Singh (Co-editor) convey their appreciation to the valued authors who have provided important contributions to this book. They also acknowledge the expert reviewers for their time and effort in maintaining the quality of the provided content and extend their gratitude to the Royal Society of Chemistry Books editorial team (Matt Caffrey and Amina Headley) for their assistance and meticulousness in making this book a success.

Ashish Kumar

Narinder Singh