Hybrid nanomaterials as chemical sensors

Abstract Pure nanomaterials are made from a single component whereas, as the name implies, hybrid nanomaterials (nanocomposites) are made of more than one component within the same matrix. Hence, hybrid nanomaterials are nanocomposites having at least one component in the nanodimension range. At present, nanocomposites have materialized as appropriate alternatives to surmount the boundaries of microcomposites and the pure single nanocounterpart. These materials are accounted as 21st century materials in their uniqueness and unusual properties with required design possibilities that are not available in the usual composites. Due to this distinctiveness of nanocomposites, researchers and engineers have devoted their efforts to develop materials for various kinds of basic and technological applications. However, hybrid nanomaterials face fabrication challenges related to controlling the stoichiometric composition of elements as well as the shape, size, and stability in the nanoscale. In this chapter, we have reviewed fundamental principles with design and preparation protocols of the hybridization of nanomaterials. Also, we have classified hybrid nanomaterials according to the interactions between components. Moreover, polymer-, carbon-, and noncarbonaceous-based nanocomposites are discussed. There are several studies suggesting that the hybridization of nanomaterials will play a vital role in the advancement of chemical sensors for high accuracy, sensitivity, response time, and life cycle. Therefore, the current chapter mainly focuses on the use of nanocomposites as chemical sensors in various fields such as biology, the environment, security, and many other related areas. In the near future, process scalability with specific morphology from the laboratory to the commercial scale is required. Also, advanced existing fabrication infrastructure and more theoretical simulation studies will be needed for a better understanding of the mechanism of the exceptional properties of nanocomposites. It is anticipated that this chapter will assist and serve as a small platform for future advancements of nanocomposite-based sensors with enhanced performance, desirable design potential, low cost, and an ecofriendly nature.