New Perspective on Functionalized Metal Nanoparticles and Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials-Based Composites for Electrochemical Biomarker Sensing and Energy Storage Devices

Due to escalating demand for high-performance electrochemical sensing and energy storage technologies, this review explores the strategic transition towards functionalized metal nanoparticles (MNPs) and 2D nanomaterial-based composites. These hybrid architectures are engineered to overcome the limitations of individual components, offering enhanced charge transfer kinetics and superior structural robustness. We highlight key breakthroughs, such as graphene-decorated gold nanoparticles achieving a limit of detection for cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44 antigens) as low as 2.0 fg/mL for the range from 5 fg/mL to 50 μg/mL. In the realm of energy storage, the silicon–graphene aerogel has demonstrated significant lithium storage capacity, achieving 800 mAh g⁻¹ after cycling stabilization, and retaining high performance over a long period of time. The discussion extends to diverse functionalization methods that optimize the interface between MNPs and 2D nanomaterial supports to enhance their performance, stability, and versatility in biosensing applications. Furthermore, it highlights their contribution to the improvement of energy storage devices including supercapacitors and batteries made of lithium-ion. Finally, the review concludes by discussing the challenges associated with scaling production and improving the stability and longevity of these composites, also their advantages and limitations in the context of electrochemical biomarker sensing and energy storage applications.