Graphene aerogel (GA) as a rising multifunctional material has demonstrated great potential for energy storage and conversion, environmental remediation, and high-performance sensors or actuators. However, the commercial use of GA is obstructed by its fragility and high cost. Herein, by a simple stirring-induced foaming of the mixed aqueous solutions of natural rubber latex (NRL) and graphene oxide liquid crystal (GOLC), we obtained tough, ultralight (4.6 mg cm-3), high compressibility (>90%), and water-adhesive graphene/NRL hybrid aerogel (GA/NRL). Of particular note, the NRL particles are conformally wrapped by graphene layers to form a sandwichlike cell wall with a biomimetic rose-petal-like surface. These distinct hierarchical structures endow GA/NRL not only with high toughness to bear impact, torsion (>90°), and even ultrasonication but also with strong adhesion to water. As proof of concept, the utilization of the as-prepared GA/NRL for collecting water droplets suspended in moist air and its improved solar-thermal harvest capacity have been demonstrated. This facile, green, and cost-effective strategy opens a new route for tailoring the microstructure and functionality of GA, which will facilitate its large-scale production and commercial application.
Keywords: biomimetic rose-petal-like; graphene aerogel; tough; ultralight; water-adhesive.