A state-of-the-art review on carbon-based nanomaterials for engineering applications

Without a comprehensive examination of the available literature on carbon-based nanomaterials (CBNs) across various engineering contexts and dimensions, the field is left vulnerable to a disproportionate focus on specific application requirements or conditions, curtailing the ability to leverage the multifunctionality and interdisciplinary advantages of CBNs. Carbon-based nanocomposites serve as a pivotal conduit for the extensive utilization of CBNs. Their functional performance is commonly tailored through approaches such as functional modification, doping, interface engineering, and multiscale structural design. A systematic discussion is presented on the current design strategies of nanocomposites incorporating carbon dots (CDs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene-based nanomaterials (GBNs). Representative cases illustrate their significant engineering application potential in five rapidly evolving and highly active fields: electronic devices, energy storage, civil engineering, water treatment, and biomedical engineering. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in CBNs, emphasizing key applications, ongoing challenges, and emerging research opportunities across diverse domains. Interdisciplinary collaboration is poised to further drive innovation, particularly in areas such as energy storage, structural health monitoring, and biosensing. Future advancements are expected to focus on advanced material design, sustainable and scalable fabrication, intelligent optimization using artificial intelligence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and systematic validation to overcome challenges in synthesis, performance, commercialization, and integration. These insights collectively underscore the pivotal role of CBNs in shaping multifunctional, cross-cutting solutions for next-generation engineering systems.