Synthesis, properties, and applications of graphene oxide/reduced graphene oxide and their nanocomposites

Thanks to their remarkable mechanical, electrical, thermal, and barrier properties, graphene-based nanocomposites have been a hot area of research in the past decade. Because of their simple top-down synthesis, graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have opened new possibilities for gas barrier, membrane separation, and stimuli-response characteristics in nanocomposites. Herein, we review the synthesis techniques most commonly used to produce these graphene derivatives, discuss how synthesis affects their key material properties, and highlight some examples of nanocomposites with unique and impressive properties. We specifically highlight their performances in separation applications, stimuli-responsive materials, anti-corrosion coatings, and energy storage. Finally, we discuss the outlook and remaining challenges in the field of practical industrial-scale production and use of graphene-derivative-based polymer nanocomposites.

Ultra-transparent nanostructured coatings via flow-induced one-step coassembly

Polyvinyl alcohol(PVA)/laponite(LP)nanocomposite coatings were fabricated via a facile one-step coassembly process.The formed nanocoatings contain a high concentration of LP nanosheets,which can be well aligned along the substrate surface during the coassembly process.Due to the highly orientated structure,the flexible nanocoatings exhibit ultra-high transparency and superior mechanical properties,and can also act as excellent gas barriers.Such nanocoatings can be exceptional candidates for a variety of applications,such as food packaging.

Two-dimensional MXenes:New frontier of wearable and flexible electronics

Wearable electronics offer incredible benefits in mobile healthcare monitoring,sensing,portable energy harvesting and storage,human-machine interactions,etc.,due to the evolution of rigid electronics structure to flexible and stretchable devices.Lately,transition metal carbides and nitrides(MXenes)are highly regarded as a group of thriving two-dimensional nanomaterials and extraordinary building blocks for emerging flexible electronics platforms because of their excellent electrical conductivity,enriched surface functionalities,and large surface area.This article reviews the most recent developments in MXene-enabled flexible electronics for wearable electronics.Several MXeneenabled electronic devices designed on a nanometric scale are highlighted by drawing attention to widely developed nonstructural attributes,including 3D configured devices,textile and planer substrates,bioinspired structures,and printed materials.Furthermore,the unique progress of these nanodevices is highlighted by representative applications in healthcare,energy,electromagnetic interference(EMI)shielding,and humanoid control of machines.The emerging prospects of MXene nanomaterials as a key frontier in nextgeneration wearable electronics are envisioned and the design challenges of these electronic systems are also discussed,followed by proposed solutions.