3D printing technology produces functional nanomaterials which hold critical importance for modern technological development. Nanomaterials improve the performance and functionality of 3D printed materials because their unique physical and chemical properties include high specific surface area along with excellent conductivity and mechanical properties. Energy storage devices benefit greatly from functional nanomaterials which improve their overall performance. The performance improvements in batteries from nanomaterials stem from their extensive specific surface area along with distinct physical and chemical characteristics. Nano-sizing methods transformed materials like LiFePO4 and Si-based negative electrodes from poor performers into high performers and led to the discovery of new conversion reaction mechanisms which increased their theoretical capacity. Structural engineering approaches like the creation of self-supporting electrodes and nanostructured current collectors have enhanced the energy density and power density of electrochemical energy storage devices.

3D Printing and Functional Nanomaterials

3D printing technology has significant advantages in electrochemical energy storage applications, mainly including the following points:

Customizability: The customizability of 3D printing allows for electrode shape, size, and structure adjustments according to specific energy storage device requirements which improve material utilization.

The technologies for integrating functional nanomaterials into 3D printed structures mainly include:

Wet chemistry and in-situ phosphating: A combination of wet chemistry and in-situ phosphating steps produces composite materials including NiCoP/MXene composites which merge the benefits of both materials to enhance electrochemical performance.

Application of nanocellulose: In 3D printing applications nanocellulose (CNFs and CNCs) becomes widely applicable because of its distinct mechanical properties together with its exclusive geometric morphology. The integration of nanocellulose enhances printing performance together with finished product quality while also increasing accuracy and durability.

Conductive nanomaterials: Conductive nanomaterials including carbon-based particles enable the production of filaments with outstanding electromagnetic characteristics as well as mechanical and thermal properties which surpass the capabilities of conventional insulating materials.

3D printing technology and functional nanomaterials case studies and examples:

NiCoP/MXene composite electrode materials: The NiCoP/MXene composite electrode materials produced by 3D printing technology deliver high area and volume energy density asymmetric supercapacitors. An asymmetric supercapacitor was developed with an area energy density of 0.89 mWh/cm² and volume energy density of 2.2 mWh/cm³ in the study.

Application of nanocellulose in 3D printing: Scientific research indicates that nanocellulose additives enhance both the printing performance and quality of produced objects when certain conditions are met which results in improved accuracy and strength. Multiple applications exist across medicine and food preservation as well as viscosity enhancement for these functional structures because of their specific properties.

Key materials for 3D printed rechargeable batteries: This review covers the newest advancements in essential materials and innovative designs for cathodes, anodes, electrolytes/separators, and 3D current collectors used in 3D printed rechargeable secondary batteries. The text discusses in detail how 3D printing technology applies to electrode materials, structural designs and reaction mechanisms.