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

Abstract

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 (≈20%) through destructive interference. The designed coating achieves an equilibrium temperature of ≈77 °C at one sun and a quick de‐icing in ≈65 s, all with a thickness of 5 µm. Simulations demonstrate that applying this coating to high‐rise buildings results in energy savings of ≈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.