Fabrication, characteristics, and applications of boron nitride and their composite nanomaterials

Semiconductor-based nanomaterials and their composites have received significant attention for solving the current global issues about energy crises, health, and environmental pollution. In this regard, boron nitride (BN), a versatile wide band gap semiconductor nanomaterial, can be a beneficial candidate due to its mechanical strength, chemical stability, better resistance to oxidation, electrical insulation, and thermal conductivity. Recently, noteworthy progress has been made in the area of BN-based composites. Primarily, they can be divided into ceramic and polymer nanocomposites based on the matrix used. In this work, we have summarized the various synthesis routes of BN and BN-based nanocomposite materials. Such composites have a wide range of applications in photocatalysis, pollutant degradation, photovoltaics, drug delivery, and sensors. In addition, the prospects for semiconductor/BN composites, including difficulties in its large-scale manufacturing of composite materials, are discussed. This review is likely to aid in the development of highly effective BN-based materials.