Insights into the reinforcibility and multifarious role of WS2 in polymer matrix

Tungsten disulfide (WS2), an important member in the Transition Metal Dichalcogenide (TMD) family has a layered structure similar to that of graphene. The semiconducting nature of WS2 together with its mechanical, thermal, optical and electronic properties makes it function as a vital material in almost all the fields like sensors, catalysts, super capacitors etc. Presently, WS2 based polymer nanocomposite are receiving much research interest due to the outstanding reinforcing capability of WS2 which leads to the development of smart materials with enhanced properties. In this review we are giving an introduction about different structures of WS2 such as fullerenes like, WS2 (IF-WS2), inorganic nanotube WS2 (INT-WS2) and WS2 layered structure. Moreover, the review also focuses on the synthesis of WS2 nanosheet and the fabrication of different polymer based composites using WS2. The review focuses on the reinforcing ability of WS2 and its multifaceted roles in polymer matrices. The applications of WS2 nanocomposites and their scope in the near future are discussed in a comprehensive manner.