Nano-engineered Materials for Vehicle-to-grid Applications in Renewable Energy–integrated Smart Grids: A Critical Environmental Review
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 15, No 2 (June 2026) pp. 63-72
Abstract
The convergence of electric mobility and renewable energy integration has intensified interest in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems as distributed energy storage solutions for smart grids. While V2G enhances renewable energy utilization and grid flexibility, frequent bidirectional cycling accelerates battery degradation and poses environmental sustainability challenges. Environmental nanotechnology offers transformative, material-level interventions through nano-engineered electrode architectures, solid-state nanocomposite electrolytes, nano-enhanced wide-bandgap power devices, and nanosensor-driven health diagnostics. This review critically evaluates the role of nanomaterials in improving electrochemical durability, thermal stability, conversion efficiency, and life cycle environmental performance in V2G-enabled systems. A comparative analysis of nano-engineered battery materials, nano-enhanced converters, and diagnostic technologies is presented. Environmental indicators, including life cycle emissions, resource conservation, and renewable energy integration efficiency, are systematically discussed. Key research gaps, scalability constraints, and commercialization challenges are identified to guide future interdisciplinary research at the intersection of environmental nanotechnology and smart grid engineering.
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