From graphene aerogels to efficient energy storage: current developments and future prospects

Graphene aerogels are more versatile than two-dimensional graphene due to their higher specific surface areas and mechanical stability. Due to restricted surface polarity and electron transport, graphene aerogels perform poorly electrochemically. Graphene composite aerogels are lightweight and porous in three dimensions. Graphene or graphene compounds materials maintain flexibility, electrical conductivity, and mechanical durability, making them useful in many applications. These materials have good chemical absorption, thermal resistance, and electrical conductivity. Engineers and researchers focus on supercapacitors for their durability, power density, and ability to withstand several charge and discharge cycles. Graphene's high electrical conductivity, large surface area, steady temperature, and excellent mechanical and chemical qualities benefit supercapacitors. One-layer graphene is unusual because of its hexagonal carbon atoms. The graphene's lattice structure and pores are of great interest because they improve cycle stability, electron transit, and performance. Graphene supercapacitors employ composite aerogels or three-dimensional networks as electrodes. This article covers three-dimensional graphene aerogel basics, production methods, and explains how graphene composite aerogel structural modification improves battery and supercapacitor performance. The three-dimensional porous structure of graphene aerogels can hold metal, bimetal, and nonmetal compounds and atoms. Conductivity, adsorption, and redox are improved by graphene composite aerogels' microstructure, pore characteristics, phase composition, and lattice structures. This investigation underscores the potential of graphene aerogel composites as promising candidates for advanced energy storage systems, offering significant advancements in battery and supercapacitor technologies. Moreover, the tunability of their surface chemistry provides opportunities for enhanced ion diffusion and charge storage capabilities. This article contributes valuable insights for the development of efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions in the pursuit of a cleaner and robust energy landscape.