Abstract: Methods for making multifunctional nanomaterial-containing composites that include the incorporation of nanomaterials into such composites in at least one of two manners: 1) in a solution of dispersed nanomaterials for coating onto a substrate; and 2) by dispersing nanomaterials in a matrix material, such as epoxy, applied to a single substrate layer or sandwiched between adjacent layers in a multiple layer composite. According to such methods, a high loading of nanomaterials may be incorporated into the composites without any deterioration in processing or handling properties.