Remarkable advances in nanomaterials and nanotechnology have led researchers in various fields. The scale effects imparted by nanomaterials are associated with unexpected macroscale phenomena and properties that find many applications. However, multi-functionalization may be accompanied by physical and commercial limitations. Therefore, research must proceed in several different directions. Here, we define multi-functionalization and the electrical applications thereof in terms of increasing performance, addition of new and valuable properties, and multi-physics in play. We deal with sensors, actuators, energy harvesters, and solar cells and explore research that seeks to increase sensitivity, append “stretchability”, and facilitate untethered communication. Furthermore, we analyze research trends in materials use and manufacturing, and highlight useful fabrication methods. With the aim of predicting future research trends, our review presents a roadmap that will aid research on sensing and multi-functional applications.
Iron and chromium based ferritic stainless steels have been considered to be a promising material for the metallic interconnect of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs). However they have a drawback of chromium evaporation led by a scale growth at the steel surface when exposed at a high temperature oxidation atmosphere, which results in chromium poisoning of the air electrode and subsequent performance degradation of SOFCs and SOECs. Application of a surface modification or protective coating onto the metallic interconnects has been introduced to prevent the degradation by mitigating the chromium evaporation. In this study, ferritic stainless steels modified with a rare earth element of neodymium was investigated on the properties of high temperature oxidation and electrical conductivity. Detailed analyses on phase formation, microstructure evolution, and area specific resistance were carried out to figure out effects of the surface modification on the steels. Accordingly, the surface modified steels revealed decrease in the area specific resistance which was led by the reduction of scale growth since the rare earth element altered the chromium oxidation behavior.
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