Electrocatalytic Activities of Chemically Reduced Graphene Are Essentially Dominated by the Adhered Carbonaceous Debris. Issue 48 (16th October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Xiaomeng; Ma, Danyang; Zhu, Liande
• Is Part Of: Chemistry. Volume 21:Issue 48(2015)
• Page Start: 17239
• Page End: 17244
• Publication Date: 2015-10-16
• Subjects: graphene -- carbonaceous debris -- cyclic voltammetry -- electrocatalysis -- electrochemistry; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540
• DOI: 10.1002/chem.201502570
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0947-6539

Abstract

Abstract: Due to its simple, scalable, and facile qualities, the chemical reduction of graphene oxide seems to be the most popular approach to prepare graphene. We show that such prepared graphene is strongly adhered with carbonaceous debris that has been produced during the synthesis of graphene oxide by the chemical exfoliation of graphite and still remain on graphene sheets through the chemical reduction steps. Interestingly, the presence of the carbonaceous debris causes a significant impact on the electrochemical behavior of the chemical reduced graphene. Herein, we demonstrate that the electrocatalytical activities of the graphene are greatly boosted by the adhered carbonaceous debris. After the removal of the carbonaceous debris, the electrocatalysis of graphene is not superior to conventional graphite. Abstract : Beyond doubt : Graphene prepared by the chemical reduction of graphene oxide is demonstrated to contain carbonaceous debris (shown as yellow dots in the scheme). The debris may dominate the electrochemical behavior of graphene and pose a profound impact on its electrocatalytic activity. This finding may be particularly meaningful in uncovering the mysterious electrocatalysis of graphene.