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Download fileSpray Assembly of Metal–Phenolic Networks: Formation, Growth, and Applications
journal contribution
posted on 2018-09-21, 15:18 authored by Qi-Zhi Zhong, Shuaijun Pan, Md. Arifur Rahim, Gyeongwon Yun, Jianhua Li, Yi Ju, Zhixing Lin, Yiyuan Han, Yutian Ma, Joseph J. Richardson, Frank CarusoHybrid conformal coatings, such as
metal–phenolic networks (MPNs) that are constructed from the
coordination-driven assembly of natural phenolic ligands, are of interest
in areas including biomedicine, separations, and energy. To date,
most MPN coatings have been prepared by immersing substrates in solutions
containing the phenolic ligands and metal ions, which is a suitable
method for coating small or flexible objects. In contrast, more industrially
relevant methods for coating and patterning large substrates, such
as spray assembly, have been explored to a lesser extent toward the
fabrication of MPNs, particularly regarding the effect of process
variables on MPN growth. Herein, a spray assembly method was used
to fabricate MPN coatings with various phenolic building blocks and
metal ions and their formation and patterning were explored for different
applications. Different process parameters including solvent, pH,
and metal–ligand pair allowed for control over the film properties
such as thickness and roughness. On the basis of these investigations,
a potential route for the formation of spray-assembled MPN films was
proposed. Conditions favoring the formation of bis complexes could
produce thicker coatings than those favoring the formation of mono
or tris complexes. Finally, the spray-assembled MPNs were used to
generate superhydrophilic membranes for oil–water separation
and colorless films for UV shielding. The present study provides insights
into the chemistry of MPN assembly and holds promise for advancing
the fabrication of multifunctional hybrid materials.