The Strategic Role of 2D Nanomaterials in Grid Modernization

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are poised to catalyze the modernization of today’s electrical grid into the Resilient Smart Grid (RSG) of the future. This Perspective explores the role of existing and projected 2D material-enabled technologies in energy generation, storage, transmission, and distribution. For energy generation, 2D materials may facilitate photovoltaic systems for conformable applications, and show promise to increase the conversion efficiency of thermoelectrics from the benchmark 5% to over 20%. Regarding energy storage, the tunability of these layered structures may enable new intercalation processes and species for beyond-lithium battery chemistries. In energy transmission and distribution, 2D materials are facilitating the creation of self-powered nanosensors and are being used to increase the conductivity of aluminum and copper composite current carriers to reduce ohmic losses. This perspective highlights research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) opportunities that could accelerate activities which prioritize 2D material manufacturing at scale, stepwise integration of 2D material-enabled technologies into the current grid paradigm, and a focus on life cycle assessment (LCA) at each step of the RDT&E ladder to evaluate material and process candidates for long-term national security and global resource stewardship. Collectively, the integration of 2D materials into these sectors through targeted RDT&E may catalyze the evolution of the grid into an intelligent, efficient RSG of the future.

Impact/Purpose

Nano4EARTH, a National Nanotechnology Challenge under the National Nanotechnology Initiative, is mobilizing the nanotechnology community to work across disciplines and stakeholder groups to accelerate the development, scale-up, and adoption of technologies to address challenges faced by the earth and its environment. This manuscript is a cross-agency collaboration that brings together information on current research and potential advances in nanotechnology that will enable Resilient Smart Grids (RSGs) in the U.S. RSGs are grids where electricity is optimally generated, stored without losses, and intelligently delivered based on relative demand. 2D materials may enable flexible photovoltaic systems, allow for new battery intercalation processes, and more efficient energy transmission and monitoring. For integration in RSGs, scale-up and efficient lifecycle analyses of 2D materials, including the possible integration of new tools such as AI, will be needed. This manuscript helps advance Pillars 2, 3 and 4 of EPA's “Powering the Great American Comeback” Initiative.

Citation

Glasscott, M., J. Burgess, P. Byrley, M. Campa, M. Griep, A. Kirk, S. Mack, B. Schwenzer, R. Welch, AND E. Mansfield. The Strategic Role of 2D Nanomaterials in Grid Modernization. American Chemical Society, Washington, DC, 11(2):972-978, (2026). [DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.5c04047]

DOI: The Strategic Role of 2D Nanomaterials in Grid Modernization