Nature-inspired architecture combining organic–inorganic frameworks: Unique structure and active sites toward a stable anti-corrosion coating

Abstract

As a promising technology for material engineering, hybrid organic-inorganic (HOI) materials with a diversity of spatial hierarchical structures have become prospective candidates for cutting-edge applications. In this hot field of hybrid materials, considerable progress has been made in the manufacture of new systems toward large applicability. However, the complex synthesis pathways, stability and durability of such frameworks remain ongoing challenges facing us that seriously hinder the practical viability of this technology. Herein, an effective nest-like network is skillfully designed with both unique architectural design and outstanding structural activity of the self-assembled material resulting from a suitable band-gap configuration. Moreover, the present work put forward how the nest-like network would architecturally upgraded on the pre-existing Al2O3 porous film by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) with the synergy of two organic molecules resulting in a tunable organic-inorganic hybrid material. This study inspired by the natural nest is realized to offer more adsorption and reaction sites in order to meet an excellent anti-corrosion performance, meanwhile achieving outstanding long-term stability. This strategy would open up a whole new possibility of the synergistic effect of two or more molecules for the fabrication of new hybrid materials not only endowed with excellent properties but also with facile synthetic route.