Laser-Induced Graphene for Slippery Photothermal De-Icing Surfaces

Abstract

Icing poses significant operational challenges in laser radar, antennas, and aircraft wings. However, there is an urgent demand for developing graphene-based de-icing surfaces with high absorption, excellent photothermal conversion ability, and low ice adhesion. Herein, laser-induced graphene (LIG) for lubricant-infused slippery photothermal de-icing surfaces has been developed. The de-icing surfaces were prepared by laser pyrolysis and lubricant infusion. After laser pyrolysis, the polyimide substrate was converted into LIG with porous nanostructures, high absorption (>90%), and hydrophobicity, which is suitable for fabricating lubricant-infused slippery photothermal de-icing surfaces. Due to the existing lubricant, the lubricant-infused slippery photothermal de-icing surfaces show low ice adhesion upon light irradiation. This work shows great potential in passive frosting/icing prevention.