A method of forming a nano-coating on a substrate comprises: depositing a first layer on a surface of the substrate, the first layer comprising a polymeric composition; depositing a second layer on the surface of the first layer opposite the substrate, the second layer comprising nanographene derivatized with a functional group selected from the group consisting of carboxy, epoxy, ether, ketone, amine, hydroxyl, alkoxy, alkyl, lactones, aryl, functionalized polymeric, functionalized oligomeric groups, and combinations thereof; and repeating the foregoing steps such that multiple alternating layers are formed, wherein each successive occurrence of the first layer is deposited on a previously deposited occurrence of the second layer.