Introduction of Next-Generation Materials

The “next-generation materials” are those materials that have high efficiency, high-performance structural stability, easy manufacturability, and multifunctional capabilities. These new materials can be classified based on dimension, shape, composition, and nanostructure like 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D. These materials have unique enhanced properties viz. electronic, optical, mechanical, magnetic, optoelectronics, vitrification, thermal properties, etc. Due to these outstanding features, these smart materials could be a game changer for prospects. Tuning the properties of such advanced materials provides a wide variety of fascinating opportunities. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of materials used to fabricate supercapacitor point of view and several other latest applications. The nanomaterials, discussed in this chapter along with their properties are Graphene, nanotubes, nanocomposites, microwave-absorbing materials, nanoparticles, biomaterials, and selfhealing polymers. It also discusses future directions for the development of advanced materials that perform well to anticipate future trends and highlight their relevance in real-world contexts. This chapter could become the torchbearer for new researchers working in the field of multifunctional advanced materials.

Keywords: Functional & smart materials, Flexible electronics, Multifunctional, Nanomaterials & nanofluids, Optoelectronics.