Hydrophobic Surface Array Structure Based on Laser-Induced Graphene for Deicing and Anti-Icing Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Engineering

Background:

• Graphene's exceptional properties drive innovation in preparation and applications.
• Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is a novel technique for graphene fabrication.
• Superhydrophobic surfaces are crucial for deicing and anti-icing technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize laser parameters for fabricating graphene periodic structures using LIG.
• To investigate the effect of scanning speed on surface hydrophobicity and deicing capabilities.
• To evaluate the potential of LIG-based hydrophobic surfaces for deicing and anti-icing applications.

Main Methods:

• Finite element software analysis (COMSOL Multiphysics) for laser surface treatment simulation.
• Fabrication of periodic linear array structures using the LIG technique.
• Characterization via Raman spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, SEM, and CLSM.
• Evaluation of hydrophobicity through contact angle measurements and delayed icing experiments.

Main Results:

• Optimal laser scanning speed for uniform graphene generation identified as 125 mm/s.
• LIG-fabricated periodic linear array structures significantly increase contact angle and suppress icing.
• Structures demonstrate efficient electric heating deicing, reaching 100 °C in 15s and 240 °C in 60s.

Conclusions:

• The LIG technique offers an efficient, economical, and convenient method for graphene preparation.
• LIG-based hydrophobic surface arrays show significant potential for advanced deicing and anti-icing solutions.