Biomimetic Multifunctional Graphene-Based Coating for Thermal Management, Solar De-Icing, and Fire Safety: Inspired from the Antireflection Nanostructure of Compound Eyes

Due to the ubiquitous and inexhaustible solar source, photothermal materials have gained considerable attention for their potential in heating and de-icing. Nevertheless, traditional photothermal materials, exemplified by graphene, frequently encounter challenges emanating from their elevated reflectance. Inspired by ocular structures, this study uses the Fresnel equation to enhance the photo-thermal conversion efficiency of graphene by introducing a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/silicon dioxide (SiO2) coating, which reduces the light reflectance (approximate to 20%) through destructive interference. The designed coating achieves an equilibrium temperature of approximate to 77 degrees C at one sun and a quick de-icing in approximate to 65 s, all with a thickness of 5 mu m. Simulations demonstrate that applying this coating to high-rise buildings results in energy savings of approximate to 31% in winter heating. Furthermore, the combination of PDMS/SiO2 and graphene confers a notable enhancement in thermal stability through a synergistic flame-retardant mechanism, effectively safeguarding polyurethane against high temperatures and conflagrations, leading to marked reduction of 58% and 28% in heat release rate and total heat release. This innovative design enhances the photo-thermal conversion, de-icing function, and flame retardancy of graphene, thereby advancing its applications in outdoor equipment, high-rise buildings, and aerospace vessels. Herein, inspired from the compound eyes to enhance the photo-thermal capability of graphene based on the Fresnel equation. An equilibrium temperature of approximate to 77 degrees C and rapid de-icing within approximate to 65 s are achieved. The synergetic flame retardant mechanism results in 58% and 28% decreases in heat release rate and total heat release. image