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Separators with high porosity, mechanical robustness, high ion conductivity, thin structure, excellent thermal stability, high electrolyte uptake and high retention capacity is today’s burning research topic. These characteristics are not easily achieved by using single polymer separators. Inorganic nanoparticle use is one of the efforts to achieve these attributes and it has taken its place in recent research. The inorganic nanoparticles not only improve the physical characteristics of the separator but also keep it from dendrite problems, which enhance its shelf life. In this article, use of inorganic particles for lithium-ion battery membrane modification is discussed in detail and composite membranes with three main types including inorganic particle-coated composite membranes, inorganic particle-filled composite membranes and inorganic particle-filled non-woven mates are described. The possible advantages of inorganic particles application on membrane morphology, different techniques and modification methods for improving particle performance in the composite membrane, future prospects and better applications of ceramic nanoparticles and improvements in these composite membranes are also highlighted. In short, the contents of this review provide a fruitful source for further study and the development of new lithium-ion battery membranes with improved mechanical stability, chemical inertness and better electrochemical properties.

Summary Proton exchange membrane fuel cell is an energy conversion technology with an excellent potential to replace fossil fuel–based internal combustion engines. Evenly distributed Pt on conductive support is commonly used as an electrocatalyst. This catalyst support material is a key component of proton exchange membrane fuel cell as it greatly affects the cost, durability, and electrochemical activity of fuel cells. Although the carbon‐based support materials have evolved in the last few decades, there is still need to explore other alternatives as the corrosion of carbon is inevitable under the harsh environments within the catalyst layer of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Moreover, the performance of noncarbon supports is also not satisfactory. Therefore, the advent of hybrid support materials, which are electrochemically stable and cost‐effective, is required. The hybrid supports exhibiting the characteristics of contributing component, or even showing synergistic effect, would circumvent the shortcomings associated with individual components. This review introduces the recent advances in hybrid support materials, including carbonaceous and noncarbonaceous one; discusses the pros and cons of different support materials; and highlights the improved properties of hybrid supports as compared with the individual components.

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