Low-temperature, rapid preparation of functionalized graphene platelets. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Houshi, Mohannad Naeem; Aakyiir, Mathias; Ma, Jun
• Is Part Of: Composites communications. Volume 22(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Low exfoliation temperature -- Functionalized graphene platelets -- Polymer nanocomposites
• DOI: 10.1016/j.coco.2020.100500
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2452-2139

Abstract

Abstract: Graphene holds promise for the development of advanced materials from battery electrodes to sensors to structural composites. However, the current preparation methods of graphene rely on long-time oxidation where particularly hazardous materials are involved. We herein report a simple, cost-effective approach to scalable preparation of solution-processible yet high-structural integrity graphene, by heating a mixture of graphite, sulfuric acid and potassium persulfate at 70 °C for 7 min. The obtained graphene platelets have average thickness of 3.88 ± 0.80 nm and a lateral dimension below 2 μm, with a Raman I D /I G of 0.06. As measured by a 4-point probe method, a graphene platelet film exhibits surface resistance of 0.70 ± 0.10 Ω/sq, corresponding to electrical conductivity of 1618.12 ± 261.56 S/cm. The as-prepared platelets have carboxyl, epoxide and hydroxyl groups on the surface, and thus the functionalized graphene platelets should be compatible with many polymers. The platelets can suspend in ethanol at 1 mg/ml for up to 3 h. Highlights: Low exfoliation temperature promotes rapid delamination and induces the functionality on graphene surface. Potassium persulfate is a strong oxidant, but it doest not damage sp 2 hybridized carbon network than potassium permanganate.