Design and Properties of Polymer–ceramic Nanocomposites for Dual Energy Storage and Biomedical Applications
Sodiq Akinola Muraina
C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho Oyo State, Nigeria.
Michael Ayobami Akinlabi
Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
Oluwagbemide Fikayo
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Chukwuma Izunna Collins
Department of Petroleum and gas engineering, University of port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Confidence Adimchi Chinonyerem *
Abia State Polytechnic, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The creation of multifunctional polymer–ceramic nanocomposites provide revolutionary potential in energy storage and medicinal uses. 112 peer-reviewed papers from 2000–2024 were rigorously evaluated within this article, synthesizing experimental, modelling, and review studies' findings. A systematic method was used, encompassing comprehensive database searching, screening for eligibility, and thematic synthesis of quantitative performance data. In energy storage devices, ceramic filler-derived nanocomposites like BaTiO₃, TiO₂, and boron nitride nanosheets show outstanding advancements in dielectric permittivity, breakdown strength, and recoverable energy density, with the highest performing systems of over 20 J/cm³ at higher than 500 MV/m fields. Interface engineering solutions through surface functionalization and 2D nanofiller alignment were found to be very effective at reducing leakage currents and improving reliability. In biomedicine, silicate- and hydroxyapatite-derived fillers in biodegradable polymers (PLGA, PCL, PLA) improved osteoconductive, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. Hierarchical porosity in scaffolds through 3D printing and electrospinning processing enabled vascularization and facilitated controlled drug delivery. Multifunctional scaffolds with structural support and therapeutic delivery emphasize the translational value of these composites. There is a small but growing quantity of research to suggest the potential for dual-functionality from hybrid constructs, for example, biocompatible implantable energy storage, but no demonstrations. The results highlight the foundational role of morphology of the filler, interface engineering, and fabrication protocol in governing multifunctionality, and they point to areas of ignorance concerning reproducibility, long-term stability, and dual-function integration.
Keywords: Polymer-ceramic nanocomposites, dielectric energy storage, biomedical scaffolds, hydroxyapatite composites, interface engineering, multifunctional materials