Exploring the Self-Cleaning Facets of Fluorinated Graphene Nanoarchitectonics: Progress and Perspectives

The development of graphene nanoarchitectonics, including their synthesis, surface modification, interfaces, conductivity and porosity, has moved forward rapidly and attracted attention from interdisciplinary research fields. Fluorinated graphene (FG), a rising star and a fascinating member of graphene family has been identified as a promising material for multiple applications, such as sensors, optics, catalysis and self-cleaning technologies. In this review, we highlight the important aspects of FG pertinent to physiochemical stability and self-cleaning technologies. We discuss the precise functionalization of FG surfaces with organic functionalities, which are promising for creating high-performance graphene derivatives. Also, by utilizing the reactivity of few-layered FG nanosheets, it is possible to develop coatings based on dispersions of functionalized FG inks coupled with porous solids and tubular nanomaterials with super-wetting functions. The functional groups of the resultant hybrids are connected to innovative substrates including meshes and macroporous sponges that can be useful for super-wetting containers and oleophilic sorbents. Furthermore, we discuss hydrophobic FG-porphyrin hybrids with metal coordination and hydrophobicity dependent photoluminescence. Finally, the self-cleaning action and anti-corrosion features of FG hybrids are explored, with potential applications in triboelectric nanogenerators and water harvesting. Future development of these materials should focus on new designs, porosity control, batch uniformity, durable self-cleaning membranes, smart textiles, eco-compatible coatings and disposability.