Graphene/Nanoporous Silica: Smart Antireflective & Hydrophobic Coating

This study develops a single-layer broadband and wide-angle antireflective (AR) coating with a hydrophobic surface to prevent environmental contamination. Porosity was introduced into the silica film matrix using an acid-catalyzed sol-gel method with polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a porosity modifier. Silica sol modified with PEG4000 achieved optimal porosity (2-4 nm) and the highest transmittance (98.2%). A graphene layer was added to enhance hydrophobicity, achieving a contact angle of 105.3°, compensating for a slight transmittance reduction (1.15%). Atomic force microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy confirmed increased porosity and groove-like surface morphology. Contact angle measurements indicated strong van der Waals interactions between the porous silica film and graphene, leading to a hydrophobic and anti-corrosive AR coating.

Autorentext

Dr. Jarnail Singh is an accomplished researcher and educator specializing in materials science, nanotechnology, and advanced engineering applications. He is an Assistant Professor at the University Centre of Research and Development, Mechanical Engineering Department, Chandigarh University, Mohali.