Graphene-based materials for energy storage: a review of synthesis, properties, and applications

Graphene-based materials have emerged as transformative candidates for energy storage systems, effectively addressing limitations such as low energy density, poor stability, and limited scalability in conventional technologies. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the synthesis techniques, structural properties, and diverse applications of graphene in advanced energy storage devices, including supercapacitors (SCs), lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), and hybrid systems. Key synthesis approaches such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD), chemical reduction of graphene oxide (GO), and biomass-derived graphene are discussed as promising sustainable alternatives. Furthermore, this review highlights recent advancements in next-generation hybrid graphene architectures that have resulted in a 30–50% enhancement in energy storage performance compared to conventional materials. Challenges such as synthesis scalability, long-term stability, and compatibility with existing technologies are discussed, alongside future directions to enable widespread commercialization. Real-world case studies illustrate the transformative potential of graphene-based energy storage technologies, bridging the gap between laboratory innovations and large-scale deployment. This review serves as a critical resource for researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, providing insights into the pathways for sustainable and high-performance energy storage solutions.