Innovations in Thermal Energy Applications through Nanotechnology: Advances in Nanoscience, Materials, and Nanostructure Physics

The field of nanotechnology for energy applications is driving a transformative shift in how thermal energy is harvested, transferred, and stored. As the world seeks sustainable and efficient energy solutions, nanomaterials with unique properties, such as high surface area, tunable conductivity, and engineered interfaces, are showing potential to overcome conventional thermal and electrical performance limits. Recent studies have focused on developing and characterizing nanofluids, nanostructured phase change materials (nanoPCMs), and nanostructured thermoelectrics, demonstrating improvements in heat transfer, energy storage, and thermoelectric conversion efficiency. However, despite these advances, several challenges remain, particularly in understanding the underlying nanoscale mechanisms that govern energy transfer, stability, and scalability, as well as the eco-compatibility and commercial integration of these materials. Therefore, there is a pressing need for further research that bridges nanoscience and thermal engineering to deliver impactful energy solutions amidst ongoing debates regarding material optimization and practical application.This Research Topic aims to highlight and inspire breakthroughs in the utilization of nanomaterials for efficient thermal energy management. Key objectives include elucidating how nanostructures can improve energy conversion processes, delineating the relationship between nanoscale phenomena and macroscale performance, and identifying innovative nanomaterial designs that drive superior energy efficiency. The goal is to foster a comprehensive understanding of how nanotechnology can offer viable pathways toward sustainable thermal energy systems, particularly in the context of renewable energy adoption and climate change mitigation.This Research Topic will encompass fundamental and applied research on the intersection of nanomaterials and thermal energy, focusing on both opportunities and challenges. Submissions may engage with experimental, theoretical, or computational approaches, but should remain centered on thermal energy applications of nanotechnology. To gather further insights into the field of nanotechnology-enabled thermal energy, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Novel nanomaterials and composite structures for thermoelectric energy conversion• Advanced mechanisms and performance enhancements in nanoscale energy storage devices, including batteries and supercapacitors• Heat transfer enhancement and stability considerations in nanofluids• Nano-enhanced phase change materials for improved thermal storage and response• Integration and scale-up challenges of nano-enabled thermal technologies in sustainable energy systemsAppendix: We welcome original research, reviews, perspectives, and short communications that align with the above themes. Topic editors: Miguel Angel Olivares-Robles, Satyabrata Mohapatra Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79571/innovations-in-thermal-energy-applications-through-nanotechnology-advances-in-nanoscience-materials-and-nanostructure-physics