Metal chalcogenide-based polymer nanocomposites: From antimicrobial drug delivery to optoelectronics and energy harvesting applications

Due to the rising need for affordable healthcare and clean energy, polymer nanocomposites (NCs) are gaining interest for potential next-generation multifunctional applications. Metal chalcogenide-based polymer nanocomposites (MCP-NCs) outperform conventional materials due to their high charge carrier mobility, tunable band gaps from visible to near-infrared, large surface-to-volume ratios for exciton dissociation and mechanical flexibility from polymer matrices. This review discusses quantum confinement effects in nanocrystals, enhanced light-matter interaction and effective interfacial charge transfer enable biomedical (photothermal therapy, biosensing), optoelectronic (photodetectors, LEDs) and energy harvesting (photovoltaics, thermoelectrics) applications. molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), tungsten disulfide (WS₂) and tin diselenide (SnSe₂) metal chalcogenides are extensively investigated for their electrochemical and capacitance properties, whereas polymers like poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS), polyaniline (PANI) and poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) are highly innovative for their thermal and electrical properties. Polymers with these metals generate scalable, lightweight, platform-neutral NCs. In optoelectronics, MCP-NCs provide sensitive, low-power photodetectorsand they offer scalable, sustainable energy harvesting with thermoelectric generators, supercapacitors, batteries and piezoelectric devices. This paper summarizes the MCP-NC structure, synthesis and possible applications in energy harvesting, optoelectronics and biomedicine. Innovations in synthesis, surface functionalization and device engineering have increased stability, efficiency and eco-safety despite interfacial mismatches and mechanical fragility. Recent advances, market growth trends and future research orientations position MCP-NCs as essential enablers of eco-friendly health, electronics and renewable energy technologies.