Sunlight-induced reduction and dehydration of graphene oxide: a simple strategy for structural preservation and stability enhancement

Abstract Graphene oxide (GO) membranes have garnered significant attention for their unique structural and functional properties, particularly in applications involving aqueous environments. This study explores the reduction of GO using natural sunlight, highlighting its distinct advantages over conventional reduction methods. Sunlight-induced reduction facilitates water removal, restores π-conjugation, and enhances stability while preserving the laminated structure of GO. Unlike thermal or laser reduction, which often disrupts the critical lamination necessary for functional applications, sunlight provides a gentle yet effective approach that retains the membrane’s structural integrity. Furthermore, this work underscores the potential role of sunlight as an environmental factor influencing GO coatings in real-world applications. When exposed to sunlight during operation, GO coatings not only resist degradation but may experience enhanced stability, improving performance over time. This transformative perspective—where sunlight powers material improvements rather than causing damage—opens pathways for sustainable applications such as corrosion prevention coatings and functional membranes. Our findings suggest that natural sunlight reduction is not only cost-effective and scalable but also crucial for understanding and optimizing GO’s behavior in working environments.