Superhydrophobic graphene-based materials

Abstract

International attention has been directed toward superhydrophobic nanocomposite coatings for a great variety of industrial applications. Nowadays, graphene-based self-cleaning coatings represent the most important examination arenas. This study reviews the superhydrophobicity fundamentals, graphene-based nanocomposite fabrication and applications for self-cleaning surfaces. These efforts have stimulated the modeling of recently structured surfaces via a micro-nano binary system. The controlled preparation of nanoscale orientation, configuration, arrangement, and direction along the architectural composite building blocks would result in air-entrapping capacity along the surface grooves. Polymer/graphene nanocomposites with novel and intriguing designs have offered efficient self-cleaning surfaces. These nano-surfaces have a rough structure, low surface free energy, and are hydrophobic materials. To improve the self-cleaning ability, several graphene/inorganic nanofiller hybrids are dispersed in polymeric resins. The review covered the creation of graphene compounds, interactions with polymers, and uses of the resulting nanocomposites. It highlights the efficacy of controlling the nanostructured design mechanisms for self-cleaning applications. The applications of superhydrophobic materials developed using graphene-related nanocomposites for self-cleaning marine antifouling surfaces are the focus of this study. Stability, as well as long-standing durability, represents vital advantages for developing eco-friendly superhydrophobic alternatives. This review concludes with a discussion of the field's current and future advancements. It is expected to serve as a cutting-edge research hub for the creation of a durable and sustainable self-cleaning coating.