Application of graphene and its derivatives in anticorrosion coatings: Research advances and future perspectives

•Structural review of anticorrosion coatings containing graphene and its derivatives.•Discussion from dispersion, orientation, functionalization methods and mechanisms.•Identification of current research gaps and industrialization difficulties. Graphene as a unique two-dimensional structure material has gained much attention due to its environmentally friendly properties, and competitive price. Good chemical stability and thermal stability make it stable in corrosive environments as well as high temperature conditions. Currently, there is a notable absence of a comprehensive and in-depth literature review on the use of graphene and its derivatives in protective coatings, with a focus on their protection mechanisms, dispersion techniques, orientation control, and functionalization. This article provides a conclusive review of the research on graphene-based composite anticorrosive coatings for metallic materials. It describes and discusses the mechanism, recent advances, and strategies. Focusing findings and achievements in the past decades. Further covers various state-of-the-art approaches to organic and inorganic modifications of graphene. Review the promotion of corrosion properties provided by the adaptation of functionalized graphene though grafting and nano-encapsulation techniques. Identifying the desirable characteristics and development direction for anticorrosion coatings with graphene introduced as filler. Comprehensive and structural review of graphene and its derivatives in anticorrosion application was done from the aspect of its protection mechanism, dispersion methods, control over orientation, and functionalization. Some adverse properties and problems identified and the scope of further research on graphene in the anticorrosion application has been outlined. [Display omitted]