Interface modulations of high-performance graphene anticorrosion coatings

Graphene has been extensively applied in metallic protection fields based on its extraordinary barrier property, large specific surface area, superlubrication, superhydrophobicity, and many other functional properties. However, two inescapable obstacles appear during the construction process of graphene-based composite coatings (GCCs) that impair the long-term protection performance of the obtained GCCs: 1) the uncontrolled distribution between graphene layers, and 2) the enfoldment of graphene sheets. Several approaches involve electric field-induced alignment, magnetic field-induced alignment, unfolding, and nacre-inspired synergistic strategy have been developed to address these obstacles in recent years, and brought about superior GCCs. This MiniReview summarized and compared these effective approaches for fabricating high-performance GCCs, featuring the relationship between the interface structure and corrosion protection performance. Also, the fabrication processes and creating broad-spectrum mechanical, thermal, electrical, antibacterial, self-healing, and anti-wear performance were discussed. Finally, perspectives for preparing high-performance and multifunctional GCCs were proposed. We convince that this paper will help to promote the development of high-performance and multifunctional GCCs and is an important significance to corrosion protection of marine and aerospace high-tech equipment at multi-scale coupling damage condition.