Sample records for nanocrystal-reduced graphene oxide

  1. Generalized syntheses of nanocrystal-graphene hybrids in high-boiling-point organic solvents.

    PubMed

    Pang, Danny Wei-Ping; Yuan, Fang-Wei; Chang, Yan-Cheng; Li, Guo-An; Tuan, Hsing-Yu

    2012-08-07

    Nanocrystal-graphene have been proposed as a new kind of promising hybrid for a wide range of application areas including catalysts, electronics, sensors, biomedicine, and energy storage, etc. Although a variety of methods have been developed for the preparation of hybrids, a facile and general synthetic approach is still highly required. In this study, nanocrystal-graphene hybrids were successfully synthesized in high-boiling-point organic solvents. Graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were modified by oleylamine (OLA) to form a OLA-GO complex in order to be readily incorporated into hydrophobic synthesis. A rich library of highly crystalline nanocrystals, with types including noble metal, metal oxide, magnetic material and semiconductor were successfully grown on chemically converted graphene (CCG), which is simultaneously reduced from GO during the synthesis. High boiling-point solvents afford sufficient thermal energy to assure the high-quality crystalline nature of NCs, therefore the post-annealing process is obviated. Controlled experiments revealed that OLA-GO triggers heterogeneous nucleation and serves as excellent nuclei anchorage media. The protocol developed here brings one step closer to achieve "unity in diversity" on the preparation of nanocrystal-graphene hybrids.

  2. Synthesis of three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide layer supported cobalt nanocrystals and their high catalytic activity in F-T CO2 hydrogenation.

    PubMed

    He, Fei; Niu, Na; Qu, Fengyu; Wei, Shuquan; Chen, Yujin; Gai, Shili; Gao, Peng; Wang, Yan; Yang, Piaoping

    2013-09-21

    The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported cobalt nanocrystals have been synthesized through an in situ crystal growth method using Co(acac)2 under solvothermal conditions by using DMF as the solvent. By carefully controlling the reaction temperature, the phase transition of the cobalt nanocrystals from the cubic phase to the hexagonal phase has been achieved. Moreover, the microscopic structure and morphology as well as the reduction process of the composite have been investigated in detail. It is found that oxygen-containing functional groups on the graphene oxide (GO) can greatly influence the formation process of the Co nanocrystals by binding the Co(2+) cations dissociated from the Co(acac)2 in the initial reaction solution at 220 °C, leading to the 3D reticular structure of the composite. Furthermore, this is the first attempt to use a Co/rGO composite as the catalyst in the F-T CO2 hydrogenation process. The catalysis testing results reveal that the as-synthesized 3D structured composite exhibits ideal catalytic activity and good stability, which may greatly extend the scope of applications for this kind of graphene-based metal hybrid material.

  3. The optical and structural properties of graphene nanosheets and tin oxide nanocrystals composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farheen, Parveen, Azra; Azam, Ameer

    2018-05-01

    A nanocomposite material consisting of metal oxide and reduced graphene oxide was prepared via simple, economic, and effective chemical reduction method. The synthesis strategy was based on the reduction of GO with Sn2+ ion that combines tin oxidation and GO reduction in one step, which provides a simple, low-cost and effective way to prepare graphene nanosheets/SnO2 nanocrystals composites because no additional chemicals were needed. SEM and TEM images shows the uniform distribution of the SnO2 nanocrystals on the Graphene nanosheets (GNs) surface and transmission electron microscope shows an average particle size of 2-4 nm. The mean crystallite size was calculated by Debye Scherrer formula and was found to be about 4.0 nm. Optical analysis was done by using UV-Visible spectroscopy technique and the band gap energy of the GNs/SnO2 nanocomposite was calculated by Tauc relation and came out to be 3.43eV.

  4. Synthesis of three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide layer supported cobalt nanocrystals and their high catalytic activity in F-T CO2 hydrogenation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    He, Fei; Niu, Na; Qu, Fengyu; Wei, Shuquan; Chen, Yujin; Gai, Shili; Gao, Peng; Wang, Yan; Yang, Piaoping

    2013-08-01

    The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported cobalt nanocrystals have been synthesized through an in situ crystal growth method using Co(acac)2 under solvothermal conditions by using DMF as the solvent. By carefully controlling the reaction temperature, the phase transition of the cobalt nanocrystals from the cubic phase to the hexagonal phase has been achieved. Moreover, the microscopic structure and morphology as well as the reduction process of the composite have been investigated in detail. It is found that oxygen-containing functional groups on the graphene oxide (GO) can greatly influence the formation process of the Co nanocrystals by binding the Co2+ cations dissociated from the Co(acac)2 in the initial reaction solution at 220 °C, leading to the 3D reticular structure of the composite. Furthermore, this is the first attempt to use a Co/rGO composite as the catalyst in the F-T CO2 hydrogenation process. The catalysis testing results reveal that the as-synthesized 3D structured composite exhibits ideal catalytic activity and good stability, which may greatly extend the scope of applications for this kind of graphene-based metal hybrid material.The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported cobalt nanocrystals have been synthesized through an in situ crystal growth method using Co(acac)2 under solvothermal conditions by using DMF as the solvent. By carefully controlling the reaction temperature, the phase transition of the cobalt nanocrystals from the cubic phase to the hexagonal phase has been achieved. Moreover, the microscopic structure and morphology as well as the reduction process of the composite have been investigated in detail. It is found that oxygen-containing functional groups on the graphene oxide (GO) can greatly influence the formation process of the Co nanocrystals by binding the Co2+ cations dissociated from the Co(acac)2 in the initial reaction solution at 220 °C, leading to the 3D reticular structure of the composite. Furthermore, this is the first attempt to use a Co/rGO composite as the catalyst in the F-T CO2 hydrogenation process. The catalysis testing results reveal that the as-synthesized 3D structured composite exhibits ideal catalytic activity and good stability, which may greatly extend the scope of applications for this kind of graphene-based metal hybrid material. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr03038e

  5. Size-Controlled TiO(2) nanocrystals with exposed {001} and {101} facets strongly linking to graphene oxide via p-Phenylenediamine for efficient photocatalytic degradation of fulvic acids.

    PubMed

    Yan, Wen-Yuan; Zhou, Qi; Chen, Xing; Yang, Yong; Zhang, Yong; Huang, Xing-Jiu; Wu, Yu-Cheng

    2016-08-15

    Photocatalytic degradation is one of the most promising methods for removal of fulvic acids (FA), which is a typical category of natural organic contamination in groundwater. In this paper, TiO2/graphene nanocomposites (N-RGO/TiO2) were prepared via simple chemical functionalization and one-step hydrothermal method for efficient photodegradation of FA under illumination of a xenon lamp as light source. Here, p-phenylenediamine was used as not only the linkage chemical agent between TiO2 nanocrystals and graphene, but also the nitrogen dopant for TiO2 nanocrystals and graphene. During the hydrothermal process, facets of TiO2 nanocrystals were modulated with addition of HF, and sizes of TiO2 nanocrystals were controlled by the contents of graphene oxide functionalized with p-phenylenediamine (RGO-NH2). The obtained N-RGO/TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited a much higher photocatalytic activity and stability for degradation of methyl blue (MB) and FA compared with other TiO2 samples under xenon lamp irradiation. For the third cycle, the 10wt%N-RGO/TiO2 catalyst maintains high photoactivity (87%) for the degradation of FA, which is much better than the TiO2-N/F (61%) in 3h. This approach supplies a new strategy to design and synthesize metal oxide and graphene oxide nanocomposites with highly efficient photocatalytic performance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Controllable synthesis of palladium nanocubes/reduced graphene oxide composites and their enhanced electrocatalytic performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yuting; Huang, Qiwei; Chang, Gang; Zhang, Zaoli; Xia, Tiantian; Shu, Honghui; He, Yunbin

    2015-04-01

    Homogeneous distribution of cube-shaped Pd nanocrystals on the surface of reduced graphene oxide is obtained via a facile one-step method by employing AA and KBr as the reductant and capping agent, respectively. The experimental factors affecting the morphology and structure of Pd nanoparticles have been systematically investigated to explore the formation mechanism of Pd nanocubes (PdNCs). It is revealed that PdNCs enclosed by active {100} facets with an average side length of 15 nm were successfully synthesized on the surface of reduced graphene oxide. KBr plays the role for facet selection by surface passivation and AA controls the reduction speed of Pd precursors, both of which govern the morphology changes of palladium nanoparticles. In the further electrochemical evaluations, the Pd nanocubes/reduced graphene oxide composites show better electrocatalytic activity and stability towards the electro-oxidation of ethanol than both reduced graphene oxide supported Pd nanoparticles and free-standing PdNCs. It could be attributed to the high electrocatalytic activity of the dominated active {100} crystal facets of Pd nanocubes and the enhanced electron transfer of graphene. The developed approach provide a versatile way for shape-controlled preparation of noble metal nanoparticles, which can work as novel electrocatalysts in the application of direct alcohols fuel cells.

  7. Controlling the formation of rodlike V2O5 nanocrystals on reduced graphene oxide for high-performance supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Li, Meili; Sun, Guoying; Yin, Pingping; Ruan, Changping; Ai, Kelong

    2013-11-13

    Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) has attracted much attention for energy storage application because of its high Faradaic activity and stable crystal structure, which make it a promising electrode material for supercapacitors. However, the low electronic conductivity and small lithium-ion diffusion coefficient of V2O5 limit its practical applications. To overcome these limitations, a facile and efficient method is here demonstrated for the fabrication of V2O5/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites as electrode materials for supercapacitors. With this method, the reduction of graphene oxide can be achieved in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solvent, without the addition of any other toxic reducing agent. Importantly, this solvent can control the formation of the uniform rodlike V2O5 nanocrystals on the surface of rGO. Compared to pure V2O5 microspheres, the V2O5/rGO nanocomposites exhibited a higher specific capacitance of 537 F g(-1) at a current density of 1 A g(-1) in neutral aqueous electrolytes, a higher energy density of 74.58 Wh kg(-1) at a power density of 500 W kg(-1), and better stability even after 1000 charge/discharge cycles. Their excellent performances can be attributed to the synergistic effect of rGO and rodlike V2O5 nanocrystals. Such impressive results may promote new opportunities for these electrode materials in high-energy-density storage systems.

  8. Embedding ultrafine ZnSnO3 nanoparticles into reduced graphene oxide composites as high-performance electrodes for lithium ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Yuhang; Jiang, Ranran; Li, Dan; Dong, Yutao; Liu, Yushan; Zhang, Jianmin

    2018-05-01

    Ultrafine ZnSnO3 nanoparticles, with an average diameter of 45 nm, homogeneously grown on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have been successfully fabricated via methods of low temperature coprecipitation, colloid electrostatic self-assembly, and hydrothermal treatment. The uniformly distributed ZnSnO3 nanocrystals could inhibit the restacking of rGO sheets. In turn, the existence of rGO could hinder the growth and aggregation of ZnSnO3 nanoparticles in the synthesis process, increase the conductivity of the composite, and buffer the volume expansion of the ZnSnO3 nanocrystals upon lithium ion insertion and extraction. The obtained ZnSnO3/rGO exhibited superior cycling stability with a discharge/charge capacity of 718/696 mA h g-1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g-1.

  9. One-Pot Synthesis of Graphene-Supported Monodisperse Pd Nanoparticles as Catalyst for Formic Acid Electro-oxidation

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Sudong; Dong, Jing; Yao, Zhaohui; Shen, Chengmin; Shi, Xuezhao; Tian, Yuan; Lin, Shaoxiong; Zhang, Xiaogang

    2014-01-01

    To synthesize monodisperse palladium nanoparticles dispersed on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets, we have developed an easy and scalable solvothermal reduction method from an organic solution system. The RGO-supported palladium nanoparticles with a diameter of 3.8 nm are synthesized in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and in the presence of oleylamine and trioctylphosphine, which facilitates simultaneous reduction of graphene oxide and formation of Pd nanocrystals. So-produced Pd/RGO was tested for potential use as electrocatalyst for the electro-oxidation of formic acid. Pd/RGO catalyzes formic acid oxidation very well compared to Pd/Vulcan XC-72 catalyst. This synthesis method is a new way to prepare excellent electrocatalysts, which is of great significance in energy-related catalysis. PMID:24675779

  10. Superparamagnetic magnetite nanocrystals-graphene oxide nanocomposites: facile synthesis and their enhanced electric double-layer capacitor performance.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qihua; Wang, Dewei; Li, Yuqi; Wang, Tingmei

    2012-06-01

    Superparamagnetic magnetite nanocrystals-graphene oxide (FGO) nanocomposites were successfully synthesized through a simple yet versatile one-step solution-processed approach at ambient conditions. Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanocrystals (NCs) with a size of 10-50 nm were uniformly deposited on the surfaces of graphene oxide (GO) sheets, which were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission election microscopy (HAADF-STEM) studies. FGO with different Fe3O4 loadings could be controlled by simply manipulating the initial weight ratio of the precursors. The M-H measurements suggested that the as-prepared FGO nanocomposites have a large saturation magnetizations that made them can move regularly under an external magnetic field. Significantly, FGO nanocomposites also exhibit enhanced electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) activity compared with pure Fe3O4 NCs and GO in terms of specific capacitance and high-rate charge-discharge.

  11. Graphene oxide/metal nanocrystal multilaminates as the atomic limit for safe and selective hydrogen storage.

    PubMed

    Cho, Eun Seon; Ruminski, Anne M; Aloni, Shaul; Liu, Yi-Sheng; Guo, Jinghua; Urban, Jeffrey J

    2016-02-23

    Interest in hydrogen fuel is growing for automotive applications; however, safe, dense, solid-state hydrogen storage remains a formidable scientific challenge. Metal hydrides offer ample storage capacity and do not require cryogens or exceedingly high pressures for operation. However, hydrides have largely been abandoned because of oxidative instability and sluggish kinetics. We report a new, environmentally stable hydrogen storage material constructed of Mg nanocrystals encapsulated by atomically thin and gas-selective reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets. This material, protected from oxygen and moisture by the rGO layers, exhibits exceptionally dense hydrogen storage (6.5 wt% and 0.105 kg H2 per litre in the total composite). As rGO is atomically thin, this approach minimizes inactive mass in the composite, while also providing a kinetic enhancement to hydrogen sorption performance. These multilaminates of rGO-Mg are able to deliver exceptionally dense hydrogen storage and provide a material platform for harnessing the attributes of sensitive nanomaterials in demanding environments.

  12. Low Temperature Vacuum Synthesis of Triangular CoO Nanocrystal/Graphene Nanosheets Composites with Enhanced Lithium Storage Capacity

    PubMed Central

    Guan, Qun; Cheng, Jianli; Li, Xiaodong; Wang, Bin; Huang, Ling; Nie, Fude; Ni, Wei

    2015-01-01

    CoO nanocrystal/graphene nanosheets (GNS) composites, consisting of a triangular CoO nanocrystal of 2~20 nm on the surface of GNS, are synthesized by a mild synthetic method. First, cobalt acetate tetrahydrate is recrystallized in the alcohol solution at a low temperature. Then, graphene oxide mixed with cobalt-precursor followed by high vacuum annealing to form the CoO nanocrystal/GNS composites. The CoO nanocrystal/GNS composites exhibit a high reversible capacity of 1481.9 m Ah g−1 after 30 cycles with a high Coulombic efficiency of over 96% when used as anode materials for lithium ion battery. The excellent electrochemical performances may be attributed to the special structure of the composites. The well-dispersed triangular CoO nanocrystal on the substrate of conductive graphene can not only have a shorter diffusion length for lithium ions, better stress accommodation capability during the charge-discharge processes and more accessible active sites for lithium-ion storage and electrolyte wetting, but also possess a good conductive network, which can significantly improve the whole electrochemical performance. PMID:25961670

  13. Fibrous hybrid of graphene and sulfur nanocrystals for high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Guangmin; Yin, Li-Chang; Wang, Da-Wei; Li, Lu; Pei, Songfeng; Gentle, Ian Ross; Li, Feng; Cheng, Hui-Ming

    2013-06-25

    Graphene-sulfur (G-S) hybrid materials with sulfur nanocrystals anchored on interconnected fibrous graphene are obtained by a facile one-pot strategy using a sulfur/carbon disulfide/alcohol mixed solution. The reduction of graphene oxide and the formation/binding of sulfur nanocrystals were integrated. The G-S hybrids exhibit a highly porous network structure constructed by fibrous graphene, many electrically conducting pathways, and easily tunable sulfur content, which can be cut and pressed into pellets to be directly used as lithium-sulfur battery cathodes without using a metal current-collector, binder, and conductive additive. The porous network and sulfur nanocrystals enable rapid ion transport and short Li(+) diffusion distance, the interconnected fibrous graphene provides highly conductive electron transport pathways, and the oxygen-containing (mainly hydroxyl/epoxide) groups show strong binding with polysulfides, preventing their dissolution into the electrolyte based on first-principles calculations. As a result, the G-S hybrids show a high capacity, an excellent high-rate performance, and a long life over 100 cycles. These results demonstrate the great potential of this unique hybrid structure as cathodes for high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries.

  14. Photocatalytic growth of Ag nanocrystals on hydrothermally synthesized multiphasic TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites and their SERS performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guo, Tian-Long; Li, Ji-Guang; Sun, Xudong; Sakka, Yoshio

    2017-11-01

    TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites were prepared via a facile one-step hydrothermal method using TiCl3 as the TiO2 precursor. Cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) was introduced as a stabilizer for GO in solution. The effects of GO content, Ti3+ concentration and urea additive on phase constituent and morphology of the TiO2 crystallites in the nanocomposites were systematically investigated. UV-vis absorption ability of the as-made composites was further tested and discussed. Ag nanocrystals (NCs) were photocatalytically grown on the surfaces of biphasic (anatase + brookite) and triphasic (anatase + brookite + rutile) TiO2/rGO nanocomposites to evaluate their surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) performances. Morphology evolution of the Ag NCs in response to different photocatalytic ability of the TiO2/rGO nanocomposite was also investigated in detail. The nanocomposite with triphasic TiO2 of proper phase constituents was confirmed to favor the growth of Ag particles of two distinctly different sizes and to produce SERS substrates of substantially better performance.

  15. A general approach to one-pot fabrication of crumpled graphene-based nanohybrids for energy applications.

    PubMed

    Mao, Shun; Wen, Zhenhai; Kim, Haejune; Lu, Ganhua; Hurley, Patrick; Chen, Junhong

    2012-08-28

    Crumpled graphene oxide (GO)/graphene is a new type of carbon nanostructure that has drawn growing attention due to its three-dimensional open structure and excellent stability in an aqueous solution. Here we report a general and one-step approach to produce crumpled graphene (CG)-nanocrystal hybrids, which are produced by direct aerosolization of a GO suspension mixed with precursor ions. Nanocrystals spontaneously grow from precursor ions and assemble on both external and internal surfaces of CG balls during the solvent evaporation and GO crumpling process. More importantly, CG-nanocrystal hybrids can be directly deposited onto various current-collecting substrates, enabling their tremendous potential for energy applications. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate the use of hybrid electrodes of CG-Mn(3)O(4) and CG-SnO(2) in an electrochemical supercapacitor and a lithium-ion battery, respectively. The performance of the resulting capacitor/battery is attractive and outperforms conventional flat graphene-based hybrid devices. This study provides a new and facile route to fabricating high-performance hybrid CG-nanocrystal electrodes for various energy systems.

  16. Graphene oxide/metal nanocrystal multilaminates as the atomic limit for safe and selective hydrogen storage

    DOE PAGES

    Cho, Eun Seon; Ruminski, Anne M.; Aloni, Shaul; ...

    2016-02-23

    Interest in hydrogen fuel is growing for automotive applications; however, safe, dense, solid-state hydrogen storage remains a formidable scientific challenge. Metal hydrides offer ample storage capacity and do not require cryogens or exceedingly high pressures for operation. However, hydrides have largely been abandoned because of oxidative instability and sluggish kinetics. We report a new, environmentally stable hydrogen storage material constructed of Mg nanocrystals encapsulated by atomically thin and gas-selective reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets. This material, protected from oxygen and moisture by the rGO layers, exhibits exceptionally dense hydrogen storage (6.5 wt% and 0.105 kg H 2 per litre inmore » the total composite). As rGO is atomically thin, this approach minimizes inactive mass in the composite, while also providing a kinetic enhancement to hydrogen sorption performance. In conclusion, these multilaminates of rGO-Mg are able to deliver exceptionally dense hydrogen storage and provide a material platform for harnessing the attributes of sensitive nanomaterials in demanding environments.« less

  17. Microscopic Fuel Particles Produced by Self-Assembly of Actinide Nanoclusters on Carbon Nanomaterials

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Na, Chongzheng

    2016-10-17

    Many consider further development of nuclear power to be essential for sustained development of society; however, the fuel forms currently used are expensive to recycle. In this project, we sought to create the knowledge and knowhow that are needed to produce nanocomposite materials by directly depositing uranium nanoclusters on networks of carbon-­ based nanomaterials. The objectives of the proposed work were to (1) determine the control of uranium nanocluster surface chemistry on nanocomposite formation, (2) determine the control of carbon nanomaterial surface chemistry on nanocomposite formation, and (3) develop protocols for synthesizing uranium-­carbon nanomaterials. After examining a wide variety ofmore » synthetic methods, we show that synthesizing graphene-­supported UO 2 nanocrystals in polar ethylene glycol compounds by polyol reduction under boiling reflux can enable the use of an inexpensive graphene precursor graphene oxide in the production of uranium-carbon nanocomposites in a one-­pot process. We further show that triethylene glycol is the most suitable solvent for producing nanometer-­sized UO 2 crystals compared to monoethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol. Graphene-­supported UO 2 nanocrystals synthesized with triethylene glycol show evidence of heteroepitaxy, which can be beneficial for facilitating heat transfer in nuclear fuel particles. Furthermore, we show that graphene-supported UO 2 nanocrystals synthesized by polyol reduction can be readily stored in alcohols, preventing oxidation from the prevalent oxygen in air. Together, these methods provide a facile approach for preparing and storing graphene-supported UO nanocrystals for further investigation and development under ambient conditions.« less

  18. Coating graphene paper with 2D-assembly of electrocatalytic nanoparticles: a modular approach toward high-performance flexible electrodes.

    PubMed

    Xiao, Fei; Song, Jibin; Gao, Hongcai; Zan, Xiaoli; Xu, Rong; Duan, Hongwei

    2012-01-24

    The development of flexible electrodes is of considerable current interest because of the increasing demand for modern electronics, portable medical products, and compact energy devices. We report a modular approach to fabricating high-performance flexible electrodes by structurally integrating 2D-assemblies of nanoparticles with freestanding graphene paper. We have shown that the 2D array of gold nanoparticles at oil-water interfaces can be transferred on freestanding graphene oxide paper, leading to a monolayer of densely packed gold nanoparticles of uniform sizes loaded on graphene oxide paper. One major finding is that the postassembly electrochemical reduction of graphene oxide paper restores the ordered structure and electron-transport properties of graphene, and gives rise to robust and biocompatible freestanding electrodes with outstanding electrocatalytic activities, which have been manifested by the sensitive and selective detection of two model analytes: glucose and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) secreted by live cells. The modular nature of this approach coupled with recent progress in nanocrystal synthesis and surface engineering opens new possibilities to systematically study the dependence of catalytic performance on the structural parameters and chemical compositions of the nanocrystals. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  19. Microwave Deposition of Palladium Catalysts on Graphite Spheres and Reduced Graphene Oxide Sheets for Electrochemical Glucose Sensing.

    PubMed

    Xie, Jian-De; Gu, Siyong; Zhang, Houan

    2017-09-21

    This work outlines a synthetic strategy inducing the microwave-assisted synthesis of palladium (Pd) nanocrystals on a graphite sphere (GS) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supports, forming the Pd catalysts for non-enzymatic glucose oxidation reaction (GOR). The pulse microwave approach takes a short period (i.e., 10 min) to fast synthesize Pd nanocrystals onto a carbon support at 150 °C. The selection of carbon support plays a crucial role in affecting Pd particle size and dispersion uniformity. The robust design of Pd-rGO catalyst electrode displays an enhanced electrocatalytic activity and sensitivity toward GOR. The enhanced performance is mainly attributed to the synergetic effect that combines small crystalline size and two-dimensional conductive support, imparting high accessibility to non-enzymatic GOR. The rGO sheets serve as a conductive scaffold, capable of fast conducting electron. The linear plot of current response versus glucose concentration exhibits good correlations within the range of 1-12 mM. The sensitivity of the Pd-rGO catalyst is significantly enhanced by 3.7 times, as compared to the Pd-GS catalyst. Accordingly, the Pd-rGO catalyst electrode can be considered as a potential candidate for non-enzymatic glucose biosensor.

  20. Microwave Deposition of Palladium Catalysts on Graphite Spheres and Reduced Graphene Oxide Sheets for Electrochemical Glucose Sensing

    PubMed Central

    Xie, Jian-De; Zhang, Houan

    2017-01-01

    This work outlines a synthetic strategy inducing the microwave-assisted synthesis of palladium (Pd) nanocrystals on a graphite sphere (GS) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supports, forming the Pd catalysts for non-enzymatic glucose oxidation reaction (GOR). The pulse microwave approach takes a short period (i.e., 10 min) to fast synthesize Pd nanocrystals onto a carbon support at 150 °C. The selection of carbon support plays a crucial role in affecting Pd particle size and dispersion uniformity. The robust design of Pd-rGO catalyst electrode displays an enhanced electrocatalytic activity and sensitivity toward GOR. The enhanced performance is mainly attributed to the synergetic effect that combines small crystalline size and two-dimensional conductive support, imparting high accessibility to non-enzymatic GOR. The rGO sheets serve as a conductive scaffold, capable of fast conducting electron. The linear plot of current response versus glucose concentration exhibits good correlations within the range of 1–12 mM. The sensitivity of the Pd-rGO catalyst is significantly enhanced by 3.7 times, as compared to the Pd-GS catalyst. Accordingly, the Pd-rGO catalyst electrode can be considered as a potential candidate for non-enzymatic glucose biosensor. PMID:28934104

  1. Utilizing boron nitride sheets as thin supports for high resolution imaging of nanocrystals.

    PubMed

    Wu, Yimin A; Kirkland, Angus I; Schäffel, Franziska; Porfyrakis, Kyriakos; Young, Neil P; Briggs, G Andrew D; Warner, Jamie H

    2011-05-13

    We demonstrate the use of thin BN sheets as supports for imaging nanocrystals using low voltage (80 kV) aberration-corrected high resolution transmission electron microscopy. This provides an alternative to the previously utilized 2D crystal supports of graphene and graphene oxide. A simple chemical exfoliation method is applied to get few layer boron nitride (BN) sheets with micrometer-sized dimensions. This generic approach of using BN sheets as supports is shown by depositing Mn doped ZnSe nanocrystals directly onto the BN sheets and resolving the atomic structure from both the ZnSe nanocrystals and the BN support. Phase contrast images reveal moiré patterns of interference between the beams diffracted by the nanocrystals and the BN substrate that are used to determine the relative orientation of the nanocrystals with respect to the BN sheets and interference lattice planes. Double diffraction is observed and has been analyzed.

  2. Synthesis and characterization of Graphene oxide/Zinc oxide nanorods sandwich structure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boukhoubza, I.; Khenfouch, M.; Achehboune, M.; Mouthudi, B.; Zorkani, I.; Jorio, A.

    2018-03-01

    Graphene-ZnO nanostructures composite materials have been used as very efficient candidates for various optoelectronic applications. Nowadays, the composite structure formation of ZnO nanostructures with graphene or graphene oxide is a novel, cost effective and efficient approach to control the morphology, surface defect states, band gap of ZnO nanocrystals. In this paper, we have prepared ZnO nanorods between two layers graphene oxide (GO/ZnO NRs/GO) via a simple hydrothermal method. Their morphology, structural and optical properties have been investigated. The obtained results of our composites GO/ZnO NRs/GO presented here showing an enhancement in the structural and optical properties. Thus may hold great promise to the development of the optoelectronic devices.

  3. Self-Assembly of Antisite Defectless nano-LiFePO4 @C/Reduced Graphene Oxide Microspheres for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hongbin; Liu, Lijia; Wang, Runwei; Yan, Xiao; Wang, Ziqi; Hu, Jiangtao; Chen, Haibiao; Jiang, Shang; Ni, Ling; Qiu, Hailong; Tang, Haitong; Wei, Yingjin; Zhang, Zongtao; Qiu, Shilun; Pan, Feng

    2018-05-18

    LiFePO 4 @C/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hierarchical microspheres with superior electrochemical activity and a high tap density were first synthesized by using a Fe 3+ -based single inorganic precursor (LiFePO 4 OH@RF/GO; RF=resorcinol-formaldehyde, GO=graphene oxide) obtained from a template-free self-assembly synthesis followed by direct calcination. The synthetic process requires no physical mixing step. The phase transformation pathway from tavorite LiFePO 4 OH to olivine LiFePO 4 upon calcination was determined by means of the in situ high-temperature XRD technique. Benefitting from the unique structure of the material, these microspheres can be densely packed together, giving a high tap density of 1.3 g cm -3 , and simultaneously, defectless LiFePO 4 primary nanocrystals modified with a highly conductive surface carbon layer and ultrathin rGO provide good electronic and ionic kinetics for fast electron/Li + ion transport. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  4. Nitrogen Dioxide-Sensing Properties at Room Temperature of Metal Oxide-Modified Graphene Composite via One-Step Hydrothermal Method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Dongzhi; Liu, Jingjing; Xia, Bokai

    2016-08-01

    A metal oxide/graphene composite film-based sensor toward room-temperature detection of ppm-level nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gas has been demonstrated. The sensor prototype was constructed on a PCB substrate with microelectrodes, and a tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide (SnO2-rGO) composite as sensing film was prepared by one-step hydrothermal synthesis of tin tetrachloride pentahydrate solution in the presence of graphene oxide (GO). The SnO2-rGO hybrid composite was examined by scanning electron microscope and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The gas sensing properties of the SnO2-rGO composite were investigated at room temperature by exposing it to a wide concentration ranging from 1 ppm to 2000 ppm toward NO2 gas. The experiment results showed that the sensor exhibited a high response, superior selectivity, good repeatability, rapid response/recovery characteristics and low detection limit of 1 ppm, which exceeded that of a pure rGO sensor. The gas sensing mechanisms of the proposed sensor toward NO2 were possibly attributed to the nano-hybrid structures and n- p heterojunctions created at the interface of the SnO2 nanocrystals and rGO nanosheets.

  5. A novel reduction approach to fabricate quantum-sized SnO₂-conjugated reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites as non-enzymatic glucose sensors.

    PubMed

    Ye, Yixing; Wang, Panpan; Dai, Enmei; Liu, Jun; Tian, Zhenfei; Liang, Changhao; Shao, Guosheng

    2014-05-21

    Quantum-sized SnO2 nanocrystals can be well dispersed on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets through a convenient one-pot in situ reduction route without using any other chemical reagent or source. Highly reactive metastable tin oxide (SnO(x)) nanoparticles (NPs) were used as reducing agents and composite precursors derived by the laser ablation in liquid (LAL) technique. Moreover, the growth and phase transition of LAL-induced SnO(x) NPs and graphene oxide (GO) were examined by optical absorption, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Highly dispersed SnO(x) NPs can also prevent rGO from being restacked into a multilayer structure during GO reduction. Given the good electron transfer ability and unsaturated dangling bonds of rGO, as well as the ample electrocatalytic active sites of quantum-sized SnO2 NPs on unfolded rGO sheets, the fabricated SnO2-rGO nanocomposite exhibited excellent performance in the non-enzymatic electrochemical detection of glucose molecules. The use of LAL-induced reactive NPs for in situ GO reduction is also expected to be a universal and environmentally friendly approach for the formation of various rGO-based nanocomposites.

  6. Intercalating graphene with clusters of Fe3O4 nanocrystals for electrochemical supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ke, Qingqing; Tang, Chunhua; Liu, Yanqiong; Liu, Huajun; Wang, John

    2014-04-01

    A hierarchical nanostructure consisting of graphene sheets intercalated by clusters of Fe3O4 nanocystals is developed for high-performance supercapacitor electrode. Here we show that the negatively charged graphene oxide (GO) and positively charged Fe3O4 clusters enable a strong electrostatic interaction, generating a hierarchical 3D nanostructure, which gives rise to the intercalated composites through a rational hydrothermal process. The electrocapacitive behavior of the resultant composites is systematically investigated by cyclic voltammeter and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques, where a positive synergistic effect between graphene and Fe3O4 clusters is identified. A maximum specific capacitance of 169 F g-1 is achieved in the Fe3O4 clusters decorated with effectively reduced graphene oxide (Fe3O4-rGO-12h), which is much higher than those of rGO (101 F g-1) and Fe3O4 (68 F g-1) at the current density of 1 Ag-1. Moreover, this intercalated hierarchical nanostructure demonstrates a good capacitance retention, retaining over 88% of the initial capacity after 1000 cycles.

  7. Theophylline-assisted, eco-friendly synthesis of PtAu nanospheres at reduced graphene oxide with enhanced catalytic activity towards Cr(VI) reduction.

    PubMed

    Hu, Ling-Ya; Chen, Li-Xian; Liu, Meng-Ting; Wang, Ai-Jun; Wu, Lan-Ju; Feng, Jiu-Ju

    2017-05-01

    Theophylline as a naturally alkaloid is commonly employed to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. Herein, a facile theophylline-assisted green approach was firstly developed for synthesis of PtAu nanospheres/reduced graphene oxide (PtAu NSs/rGO), without any surfactant, polymer, or seed involved. The obtained nanocomposites were applied for the catalytic reduction and removal of highly toxic chromium (VI) using formic acid as a model reductant at 50°C, showing the significantly enhanced catalytic activity and improved recyclability when compared with commercial Pt/C (50%) and home-made Au nanocrystals supported rGO (Au NCs/rGO). It demonstrates great potential applications of the catalyst in wastewater treatment and environmental protection. The eco-friendly route provides a new platform to fabricate other catalysts with enhanced catalytic activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Using Graphene Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy to Study in Situ Nanocrystal Etching.

    PubMed

    Hauwiller, Matthew R; Ondry, Justin C; Alivisatos, A Paul

    2018-05-17

    Graphene liquid cell electron microscopy provides the ability to observe nanoscale chemical transformations and dynamics as the reactions are occurring in liquid environments. This manuscript describes the process for making graphene liquid cells through the example of graphene liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) experiments of gold nanocrystal etching. The protocol for making graphene liquid cells involves coating gold, holey-carbon TEM grids with chemical vapor deposition graphene and then using those graphene-coated grids to encapsulate liquid between two graphene surfaces. These pockets of liquid, with the nanomaterial of interest, are imaged in the electron microscope to see the dynamics of the nanoscale process, in this case the oxidative etching of gold nanorods. By controlling the electron beam dose rate, which modulates the etching species in the liquid cell, the underlying mechanisms of how atoms are removed from nanocrystals to form different facets and shapes can be better understood. Graphene liquid cell TEM has the advantages of high spatial resolution, compatibility with traditional TEM holders, and low start-up costs for research groups. Current limitations include delicate sample preparation, lack of flow capability, and reliance on electron beam-generated radiolysis products to induce reactions. With further development and control, graphene liquid cell may become a ubiquitous technique in nanomaterials and biology, and is already being used to study mechanisms governing growth, etching, and self-assembly processes of nanomaterials in liquid on the single particle level.

  9. Hybrid zinc oxide/graphene electrodes for depleted heterojunction colloidal quantum-dot solar cells.

    PubMed

    Tavakoli, Mohammad Mahdi; Aashuri, Hossein; Simchi, Abdolreza; Fan, Zhiyong

    2015-10-07

    Recently, hybrid nanocomposites consisting of graphene/nanomaterial heterostructures have emerged as promising candidates for the fabrication of optoelectronic devices. In this work, we have employed a facile and in situ solution-based process to prepare zinc oxide/graphene quantum dots (ZnO/G QDs) in a hybrid structure. The prepared hybrid dots are composed of a ZnO core, with an average size of 5 nm, warped with graphene nanosheets. Spectroscopic studies show that the graphene shell quenches the photoluminescence intensity of the ZnO nanocrystals by about 72%, primarily due to charge transfer reactions and static quenching. A red shift in the absorption peak is also observed. Raman spectroscopy determines G-band splitting of the graphene shell into two separated sub-bands (G(+), G(-)) caused by the strain induced symmetry breaking. It is shown that the hybrid ZnO/G QDs can be used as a counter-electrode for heterojunction colloidal quantum-dot solar cells for efficient charge-carrier collection, as evidenced by the external quantum efficiency measurement. Under the solar simulated spectrum (AM 1.5G), we report enhanced power conversion efficiency (35%) with higher short current circuit (80%) for lead sulfide-based solar cells as compared to devices prepared by pristine ZnO nanocrystals.

  10. Emission and Structure-Varying ZnO and Carbon Nanocrystal Composite in Mechanical Processing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Torchynska, T.; Perez Millan, B.; Polupan, G.; Kakazey, M.

    2018-03-01

    Morphology, photoluminescence (PL), and Raman scattering spectra have been investigated for mixtures of ZnO+0.1%C nanocrystals (NCs) at different stages of mechanical processing (MP). The transformation of graphite into graphene monolayers covering the ZnO NC surface is revealed for the first MP stage. The interaction with oxygen has been detected in the second MP stage which leads to the dissolution of oxygen interstitials in the ZnO NCs and to the formation of graphene (graphite) oxides. Increasing the concentration of the oxygen interstitials in ZnO NCs also enhances the intensity stimulation of the orange PL band (2.18eV). Simultaneously, the PL band peaking at 2.82-2.90 eV is detected in the PL spectra of the ZnO+0.1%C NC mixture after MP for 9-90 min. Then, the variation of the ZnO NC shape, agglomeration of ZnO NCs, modification of ZnO defects and decreasing PL intensity have been detected after prolonged MP for 390 min. It is expected that short stages of MP can be useful for ZnO NC surface covering by graphene layers or graphene (graphite) oxides.

  11. Exciton Energy Transfer from Halide Terminated Nanocrystals to Graphene in Solar Photovoltaics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ajayi, Obafunso; Abramson, Justin; Anderson, Nicholas; Owen, Jonathan; Zhao, Yue; Kim, Phillip; Gesuele, Felice; Wong, Chee Wei

    2011-03-01

    Graphene, a zero-gap semiconductor, has been identified as an ideal electrode for nanocrystal solar cell photovoltaic applications due to its high carrier mobility. Further advances in efficient current extraction are required towards this end. We investigate the resonant energy transfer dynamics between photoexcited nanocrystals and graphene, where the energy transfer rate is characterized by the fluorescent quenching of the quantum dots in the presence of graphene. Energy transfer has been shown to have a d -4 dependence on the nanocrystal distance from the graphene surface, with a correction due to blinking statistics. We investigate this relationship with single and few layer graphene. We study halide-terminated CdSe quantum dots; where the absence of the insulating outershell improves the electronic coupling of the donor-acceptor system leads to improved electron transfer. We observe quenching of the halide terminated nanocrystals on graphene, with the quenching factor ρ defined as IQ /IG (the relative intensities on quartz and graphene).

  12. Reduced graphene oxide-TiO2 nanocomposite as a promising visible-light-active photocatalyst for the conversion of carbon dioxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tan, Lling-Lling; Ong, Wee-Jun; Chai, Siang-Piao; Mohamed, Abdul Rahman

    2013-11-01

    Photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into hydrocarbon fuels such as methane is an attractive strategy for simultaneously harvesting solar energy and capturing this major greenhouse gas. Incessant research interest has been devoted to preparing graphene-based semiconductor nanocomposites as photocatalysts for a variety of applications. In this work, reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-TiO2 hybrid nanocrystals were fabricated through a novel and simple solvothermal synthetic route. Anatase TiO2 particles with an average diameter of 12 nm were uniformly dispersed on the rGO sheet. Slow hydrolysis reaction was successfully attained through the use of ethylene glycol and acetic acid mixed solvents coupled with an additional cooling step. The prepared rGO-TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited superior photocatalytic activity (0.135 μmol gcat -1 h-1) in the reduction of CO2 over graphite oxide and pure anatase. The intimate contact between TiO2 and rGO was proposed to accelerate the transfer of photogenerated electrons on TiO2 to rGO, leading to an effective charge anti-recombination and thus enhancing the photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, our photocatalysts were found to be active even under the irradiation of low-power energy-saving light bulbs, which renders the entire process economically and practically feasible.

  13. Reduced graphene oxide-TiO2 nanocomposite as a promising visible-light-active photocatalyst for the conversion of carbon dioxide.

    PubMed

    Tan, Lling-Lling; Ong, Wee-Jun; Chai, Siang-Piao; Mohamed, Abdul Rahman

    2013-11-06

    Photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into hydrocarbon fuels such as methane is an attractive strategy for simultaneously harvesting solar energy and capturing this major greenhouse gas. Incessant research interest has been devoted to preparing graphene-based semiconductor nanocomposites as photocatalysts for a variety of applications. In this work, reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-TiO2 hybrid nanocrystals were fabricated through a novel and simple solvothermal synthetic route. Anatase TiO2 particles with an average diameter of 12 nm were uniformly dispersed on the rGO sheet. Slow hydrolysis reaction was successfully attained through the use of ethylene glycol and acetic acid mixed solvents coupled with an additional cooling step. The prepared rGO-TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited superior photocatalytic activity (0.135 μmol gcat-1 h-1) in the reduction of CO2 over graphite oxide and pure anatase. The intimate contact between TiO2 and rGO was proposed to accelerate the transfer of photogenerated electrons on TiO2 to rGO, leading to an effective charge anti-recombination and thus enhancing the photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, our photocatalysts were found to be active even under the irradiation of low-power energy-saving light bulbs, which renders the entire process economically and practically feasible.

  14. Point of care with micro fluidic paper based device integrated with nano zeolite-graphene oxide nanoflakes for electrochemical sensing of ketamine.

    PubMed

    Narang, Jagriti; Malhotra, Nitesh; Singhal, Chaitali; Mathur, Ashish; Chakraborty, Dhritiman; Anil, Anusree; Ingle, Aviraj; Pundir, Chandra S

    2017-02-15

    The present study was aimed to develop an ultrasensitive technique for electroanalysis of ketamine; a date rape drug. It involved the fabrication of nano-hybrid based electrochemical micro fluidic paper-based analytical device (EμPADs) for electrochemical sensing of ketamine. A paper chip was developed using zeolites nanoflakes and graphene-oxide nanocrystals (Zeo-GO). EμPAD offers many advantages such as facile approach, economical and potential for commercialization. Nanocrystal modified EμPAD showed wide linear range 0.001-5nM/mL and a very low detection limit of 0.001nM/mL. The developed sensor was tested in real time samples like alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and found good correlation (99%). The hyphenation of EμPAD integrated with nanocrystalline Zeo-GO for detection of ketamine has immense prospective for field-testing platforms. An extensive development could be made for industrial translation of this fabricated device. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Solvothermal-induced self-assembly of Fe2O3/GS aerogels for high Li-storage and excellent stability.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ronghua; Xu, Chaohe; Du, Meng; Sun, Jing; Gao, Lian; Zhang, Peng; Yao, Heliang; Lin, Chucheng

    2014-06-12

    A novel solvothermal-induced self-assembly approach, using colloid sol as precursor, is developed to construct monolithic 3D metal oxide/GS (graphene sheets) aerogels. During the solvothermal process, graphene oxide (GO) is highly reduced to GS and self-assembles into 3D macroscopic hydrogels, accompanying with in situ transformation of colloid sol to metal oxides. As a proof of concept, Fe2 O3 /GS aerogels are synthesized based on Fe(OH)3 sol, in which GS self-assemble into an interconnected macroporous framework and Fe2 O3 nanocrystals (20-50 nm) uniformly deposit on GS. Benefitting from the integration of macroporous structures, large surface area, high electrical conductivity, and good electrode homogeneity, the hybrid electrode manifests a superior rate capability (930, 660 and 520 mAh g(-1) at 500, 2000 and 4000 mA g(-1), respectively) and excellent prolonged cycling stability at high rates (733 mAh g(-1) during 1000 charge/discharge cycles at 2000 mA g(-1)), demonstrating its great potential for application in high performance lithium ion batteries. The work described here provides a versatile pathway to construct various graphene-based hybrid aerogels. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. Enhanced direct electrochemistry of glucose oxidase and biosensing for glucose via synergy effect of graphene and CdS nanocrystals.

    PubMed

    Wang, Kun; Liu, Qian; Guan, Qing-Meng; Wu, Jun; Li, He-Nan; Yan, Jia-Jia

    2011-01-15

    Integrating graphene-based composites with enzyme provides a potent strategy to enhance biosensor performance due to their unique physicochemical properties. Herein we report on the utilization of graphene-CdS (G-CdS) nanocomposite as a novel immobilization matrix for the enzymes, which glucose oxidase (GOD) was chosen as model enzyme. In comparison with the graphene sheet and CdS nanocrystal, G-CdS nanocomposite exhibited excellent electron transfer properties for GOD with the rate constant (k(s)) of 5.9 s(-1) due to the synergy effect of graphene sheet and CdS nanocrystals. Further, based on the decrease of the electrocatalytic response of the reduced form of GOD to dissolved oxygen, the obtained glucose biosensor displays satisfactory analytical performance over an acceptable linear range from 2.0 to 16 mM with a detection limit of 0.7 mM, and also prevents the effects of interfering species, which is suitable for glucose determination by real samples. These results mean that this immobilization matrix not only can be used for immobilizing GOD, but also can be extended to other enzymes and bioactive molecules, thus providing a promising platform for the development of biosensors. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Thermal properties of graphite oxide, thermally reduced graphene and chemically reduced graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jankovský, Ondřej; Sedmidubský, David; Lojka, Michal; Sofer, Zdeněk

    2017-07-01

    We compared thermal behavior and other properties of graphite oxide, thermally reduced graphene and chemically reduced graphene. Graphite was oxidized according to the Hofmann method using potassium chlorate as oxidizing agent in strongly acidic environment. In the next step, the formed graphite oxide was chemically or thermally reduced yielding graphene. The mechanism of thermal reduction was studied using STA-MS. Graphite oxide and both thermally and chemically reduced graphenes were analysed by SEM, EDS, elemental combustion analysis, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, XRD and BET. These findings will help for the large scale production of graphene with appropriate chemical composition.

  18. Graphene quantum dots, graphene oxide, carbon quantum dots and graphite nanocrystals in coals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dong, Yongqiang; Lin, Jianpeng; Chen, Yingmei; Fu, Fengfu; Chi, Yuwu; Chen, Guonan

    2014-06-01

    Six coal samples of different ranks have been used to prepare single-layer graphene quantum dots (S-GQDs). After chemical oxidation and a series of centrifugation separation, every coal could be treated into two fractions, namely, CoalA and CoalB. According to the characterization results of TEM, AFM, XRD, Raman and FTIR, CoalA was revealed to be mainly composed of S-GQDs, which have an average height of about 0.5 nm and an average plane dimension of about 10 nm. The obtained S-GQDs showed excitation-dependent fluorescence and excellent electrochemiluminescence. CoalB was found to be some other carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs), including agglomerated GQDs, graphene oxide, carbon quantum dots and agglomerated carbon nanocrystals. Generally, low-ranked coals might be more suitable for the preparation of S-GQDs. The production yield of S-GQDs from the six investigated coals decreased from 56.30% to 14.66% when the coal rank increased gradually. In contrast, high-ranked coals had high production yield of CoalB and might be more suitable for preparing other CNMs that were contained in CoalB, although those CNMs were difficult to separate from each other in our experiment.Six coal samples of different ranks have been used to prepare single-layer graphene quantum dots (S-GQDs). After chemical oxidation and a series of centrifugation separation, every coal could be treated into two fractions, namely, CoalA and CoalB. According to the characterization results of TEM, AFM, XRD, Raman and FTIR, CoalA was revealed to be mainly composed of S-GQDs, which have an average height of about 0.5 nm and an average plane dimension of about 10 nm. The obtained S-GQDs showed excitation-dependent fluorescence and excellent electrochemiluminescence. CoalB was found to be some other carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs), including agglomerated GQDs, graphene oxide, carbon quantum dots and agglomerated carbon nanocrystals. Generally, low-ranked coals might be more suitable for the preparation of S-GQDs. The production yield of S-GQDs from the six investigated coals decreased from 56.30% to 14.66% when the coal rank increased gradually. In contrast, high-ranked coals had high production yield of CoalB and might be more suitable for preparing other CNMs that were contained in CoalB, although those CNMs were difficult to separate from each other in our experiment. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Elemental analysis results of coal samples, FTIR spectra of CoalA and CoalB, ECL responses of CoalA/S2O82-. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr01482k

  19. Au/ZnO hybrid nanocatalysts impregnated in N-doped graphene for simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid, acetaminophen and dopamine.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xianlan; Zhang, Guowei; Shi, Ling; Pan, Shanqing; Liu, Wei; Pan, Hiabo

    2016-08-01

    The formation of nitrogen-doped (N-doped) graphene uses hydrothermal method with urea as reducing agent and nitrogen source. The surface elemental composition of the catalyst was analyzed through XPS, which showed a high content of a total N species (7.12at.%), indicative of the effective N-doping, present in the form of pyridinic N, pyrrolic N and graphitic N groups. Moreover, Au nanoparticles deposited on ZnO nanocrystals surface, forming Au/ZnO hybrid nanocatalysts, undergo a super-hydrophobic to super-hydrophilic conversion. Herein, we present Au/ZnO hybrid nanocatalysts impregnated in N-doped graphene sheets through sonication technique of the Au/ZnO/N-doped graphene hybrid nanostructures. The as-prepared Au/ZnO/N-doped graphene hybrid nanostructure modified glassy carbon electrode (Au/ZnO/N-doped graphene/GCE) was first employed for the simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid (AA), dopamine (DA) and acetaminophen (AC). The oxidation over-potentials of AA, DA and AC decreased dramatically, and their oxidation peak currents increased significantly at Au/ZnO/N-doped graphene/GCE compared to those obtained at the N-doped graphene/GCE and bare CCE. The peak separations between AA and DA, DA and AC, and AC and AA are large up to 195, 198 and 393mV, respectively. The calibration curves for AA, DA and AC were obtained in the range of 30.00-13.00×10(3), 2.00-0.18×10(3) and 5.00-3.10×10(3)μM, respectively. The detection limits (S/N=3) were 5.00, 0.40 and 0.80μM for AA, DA and AC, respectively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Evolution of Reduced Graphene Oxide-SnS2 Hybrid Nanoparticle Electrodes in Li-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Modarres, Mohammad H; Lim, Jonathan Hua-Wei; George, Chandramohan; De Volder, Michael

    2017-06-22

    Hybrid nanomaterials where active battery nanoparticles are synthesized directly onto conductive additives such as graphene hold the promise of improving the cyclability and energy density of conversion and alloying type Li-ion battery electrodes. Here we investigate the evolution of hybrid reduced graphene oxide-tin sulfide (rGO-SnS 2 ) electrodes during battery cycling. These hybrid nanoparticles are synthesized by a one-step solvothermal microwave reaction which allows for simultaneous synthesis of the SnS 2 nanocrystals and reduction of GO. Despite the hybrid architecture of these electrodes, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy shows that the impedance doubles in about 25 cycles and subsequently gradually increases, which may be caused by an irreversible surface passivation of rGO by sulfur enriched conversion products. This surface passivation is further confirmed by post-mortem Raman spectroscopy of the electrodes, which no longer detects rGO peaks after 100 cycles. Moreover, galvanostatic intermittent titration analysis during the 1st and 100th cycles shows a drop in Li-ion diffusion coefficient of over an order of magnitude. Despite reports of excellent cycling performance of hybrid nanomaterials, our work indicates that in certain electrode systems, it is still critical to further address passivation and charge transport issues between the active phase and the conductive additive in order to retain high energy density and cycling performance.

  1. Graphene oxide--MnO2 nanocomposites for supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Chen, Sheng; Zhu, Junwu; Wu, Xiaodong; Han, Qiaofeng; Wang, Xin

    2010-05-25

    A composite of graphene oxide supported by needle-like MnO(2) nanocrystals (GO-MnO(2) nanocomposites) has been fabricated through a simple soft chemical route in a water-isopropyl alcohol system. The formation mechanism of these intriguing nanocomposites investigated by transmission electron microscopy and Raman and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy is proposed as intercalation and adsorption of manganese ions onto the GO sheets, followed by the nucleation and growth of the crystal species in a double solvent system via dissolution-crystallization and oriented attachment mechanisms, which in turn results in the exfoliation of GO sheets. Interestingly, it was found that the electrochemical performance of as-prepared nanocomposites could be enhanced by the chemical interaction between GO and MnO(2). This method provides a facile and straightforward approach to deposit MnO(2) nanoparticles onto the graphene oxide sheets (single layer of graphite oxide) and may be readily extended to the preparation of other classes of hybrids based on GO sheets for technological applications.

  2. Drude conductivity exhibited by chemically synthesized reduced graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Younas, Daniyal; Javed, Qurat-ul-Ain; Fatima, Sabeen; Kalsoom, Riffat; Abbas, Hussain; Khan, Yaqoob

    2017-09-01

    Electrical conductance in graphene layers having Drude like response due to massless Dirac fermions have been well explained theoretically as well as experimentally. In this paper Drude like electrical conductivity response of reduced graphene oxide synthesized by chemical route is presented. A method slightly different from conventional methods is used to synthesize graphene oxide which is then converted to reduced graphene oxide. Various analytic techniques were employed to verify the successful oxidation and reductions in the process and were also used to measure various parameters like thickness of layers and conductivity. Obtained reduced graphene oxide has very thin layers of thickness around 13 nm on average and reduced graphene oxide has average thickness below 20 nm. Conductivity of the reduced graphene was observed to have Drude like response which is explained on basis of Drude model for conductors.

  3. Synthesis of ZnO Nanocrystal-Graphene Composite by Mechanical Milling and Sonication-Assisted Exfoliation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arora, Sweety; Srivastava, Chandan

    2017-02-01

    A ZnO nanocrystal-graphene composite was synthesized by a two-step method involving mechanical milling and sonication-assisted exfoliation. Zn metal powder was first ball-milled with graphite powder for 30 h in water medium. This ball-milled mixture was then subjected to exfoliation by sonication in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate surfactant to produce graphene decorated with spherical agglomerates of ultrafine nanocrystalline ZnO. The presence of a few layers of graphene was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy measurements. The size, phase identity and composition of the ZnO nanocrystals was determined by transmission electron microscopy measurements.

  4. Nonvolatile memory behavior of nanocrystalline cellulose/graphene oxide composite films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Valentini, L.; Cardinali, M.; Fortunati, E.; Kenny, J. M.

    2014-10-01

    With the continuous advance of modern electronics, the demand for nonvolatile memory cells rapidly grows. In order to develop post-silicon electronic devices, it is necessary to find innovative solutions to the eco-sustainability problem of materials for nonvolatile memory cells. In this work, we realized a resistive memory device based on graphene oxide (GO) and GO/cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) thin films. Aqueous solutions of GO and GO with CNC have been prepared and drop cast between two metal electrodes. Such thin-film based devices showed a transition between low and high conductivity states upon the forward and backward sweeping of an external electric field. This reversible current density transition behavior demonstrates a typical memory characteristic. The obtained results open an easy route for electronic information storage based on the integration of nanocrystalline cellulose onto graphene based devices.

  5. Graphene electrode modified with electrochemically reduced graphene oxide for label-free DNA detection.

    PubMed

    Li, Bing; Pan, Genhua; Avent, Neil D; Lowry, Roy B; Madgett, Tracey E; Waines, Paul L

    2015-10-15

    A novel printed graphene electrode modified with electrochemically reduced graphene oxide was developed for the detection of a specific oligonucleotide sequence. The graphene oxide was immobilized onto the surface of a graphene electrode via π-π bonds and electrochemical reduction of graphene oxide was achieved by cyclic voltammetry. A much higher redox current was observed from the reduced graphene oxide-graphene double-layer electrode, a 42% and 36.7% increase, respectively, in comparison with that of a bare printed graphene or reduced graphene oxide electrode. The good electron transfer activity is attributed to a combination of the large number of electroactive sites in reduced graphene oxide and the high conductivity nature of graphene. The probe ssDNA was further immobilized onto the surface of the reduced graphene oxide-graphene double-layer electrode via π-π bonds and then hybridized with its target cDNA. The change of peak current due to the hybridized dsDNA could be used for quantitative sensing of DNA concentration. It has been demonstrated that a linear range from 10(-7)M to 10(-12)M is achievable for the detection of human immunodeficiency virus 1 gene with a detection limit of 1.58 × 10(-13)M as determined by three times standard deviation of zero DNA concentration. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Single-particle mapping of nonequilibrium nanocrystal transformations

    DOE PAGES

    Ye, Xingchen; Jones, Matthew R.; Frechette, Layne B.; ...

    2016-11-18

    Chemists have developed mechanistic insight into numerous chemical reactions by thoroughly characterizing nonequilibrium species. Although methods to probe these processes are well established for molecules, analogous techniques for understanding intermediate structures in nanomaterials have been lacking. For this study, we monitor the shape evolution of individual anisotropic gold nanostructures as they are oxidatively etched in a graphene liquid cell with a controlled redox environment. Short-lived, nonequilibrium nanocrystals are observed, structurally analyzed, and rationalized through Monte Carlo simulations. Understanding these reaction trajectories provides important fundamental insight connecting high-energy nanocrystal morphologies to the development of kinetically stabilized surface features and demonstrates themore » importance of developing tools capable of probing short-lived nanoscale species at the single-particle level.« less

  7. Investigation of hydrogen evolution activity for the nickel, nickel-molybdenum nickel-graphite composite and nickel-reduced graphene oxide composite coatings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jinlong, Lv; Tongxiang, Liang; Chen, Wang

    2016-03-01

    The nickel, nickel-molybdenum alloy, nickel-graphite and nickel-reduced graphene oxide composite coatings were obtained by the electrodeposition technique from a nickel sulfate bath. Nanocrystalline molybdenum, graphite and reduced graphene oxide in nickel coatings promoted hydrogen evolution reaction in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution at room temperature. However, the nickel-reduced graphene oxide composite coating exhibited the highest electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution at room temperature. A large number of gaps between 'cauliflower' like grains could decrease effective area for hydrogen evolution reaction in slight amorphous nickel-molybdenum alloy. The synergistic effect between nickel and reduced graphene oxide promoted hydrogen evolution, moreover, refined grain in nickel-reduced graphene oxide composite coating and large specific surface of reduced graphene oxide also facilitated hydrogen evolution reaction.

  8. Atomic Layer Deposition of Titanium Oxide on Single-Layer Graphene: An Atomic-Scale Study toward Understanding Nucleation and Growth

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Controlled synthesis of a hybrid nanomaterial based on titanium oxide and single-layer graphene (SLG) using atomic layer deposition (ALD) is reported here. The morphology and crystallinity of the oxide layer on SLG can be tuned mainly with the deposition temperature, achieving either a uniform amorphous layer at 60 °C or ∼2 nm individual nanocrystals on the SLG at 200 °C after only 20 ALD cycles. A continuous and uniform amorphous layer formed on the SLG after 180 cycles at 60 °C can be converted to a polycrystalline layer containing domains of anatase TiO2 after a postdeposition annealing at 400 °C under vacuum. Using aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (AC-TEM), characterization of the structure and chemistry was performed on an atomic scale and provided insight into understanding the nucleation and growth. AC-TEM imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy revealed that rocksalt TiO nanocrystals were occasionally formed at the early stage of nucleation after only 20 ALD cycles. Understanding and controlling nucleation and growth of the hybrid nanomaterial are crucial to achieving novel properties and enhanced performance for a wide range of applications that exploit the synergetic functionalities of the ensemble. PMID:28356613

  9. Nonvolatile memory behavior of nanocrystalline cellulose/graphene oxide composite films

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Valentini, L., E-mail: luca.valentini@unipg.it; Cardinali, M.; Fortunati, E.

    2014-10-13

    With the continuous advance of modern electronics, the demand for nonvolatile memory cells rapidly grows. In order to develop post-silicon electronic devices, it is necessary to find innovative solutions to the eco-sustainability problem of materials for nonvolatile memory cells. In this work, we realized a resistive memory device based on graphene oxide (GO) and GO/cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) thin films. Aqueous solutions of GO and GO with CNC have been prepared and drop cast between two metal electrodes. Such thin-film based devices showed a transition between low and high conductivity states upon the forward and backward sweeping of an external electricmore » field. This reversible current density transition behavior demonstrates a typical memory characteristic. The obtained results open an easy route for electronic information storage based on the integration of nanocrystalline cellulose onto graphene based devices.« less

  10. Facile hydrothermal preparation of titanium dioxide decorated reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite

    PubMed Central

    Chang, Betty Yea Sze; Huang, Nay Ming; An’amt, Mohd Nor; Marlinda, Abdul Rahman; Norazriena, Yusoff; Muhamad, Muhamad Rasat; Harrison, Ian; Lim, Hong Ngee; Chia, Chin Hua

    2012-01-01

    A simple single-stage approach, based on the hydrothermal technique, has been introduced to synthesize reduced graphene oxide/titanium dioxide nanocomposites. The titanium dioxide nanoparticles are formed at the same time as the graphene oxide is reduced to graphene. The triethanolamine used in the process has two roles. It acts as a reducing agent for the graphene oxide as well as a capping agent, allowing the formation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution (~20 nm). Transmission electron micrographs show that the nanoparticles are uniformly distributed on the reduced graphene oxide nanosheet. Thermogravimetric analysis shows the nanocomposites have an enhanced thermal stability over the original components. The potential applications for this technology were demonstrated by the use of a reduced graphene oxide/titanium dioxide nanocomposite-modified glassy carbon electrode, which enhanced the electrochemical performance compared to a conventional glassy carbon electrode when interacting with mercury(II) ions in potassium chloride electrolyte. PMID:22848166

  11. Simple synthesis of graphene nanocomposites MgO-rGO and Fe2O3-rGO for multifunctional applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdel-Aal, Seham K.; Ionov, Andrey; Mozhchil, R. N.; Naqvi, Alim H.

    2018-05-01

    Hummer's method was used to prepare graphene oxide (GO) by chemical exfoliation of graphite. Simple precipitation method was used for the preparation of hybrid nanocomposites MgO-rGO and Fe2O3-rGO. A 0.3 Molar of corresponding metal nitrate solution and GO solution are used for the preparation process. XRD, FT-IR, and XPS were used to characterize the prepared nanocomposites. The reduction of GO into reduced rGO in the formed nanocomposites was confirmed. Morphological characterization showed the formation of needle-shaped nanocrystals of MgO successfully grown on graphene nanosheet with average crystallite size 8.4 nm. Hematite nanocomposite Fe2O3-rGO forms rod-shaped crystals with average crystallite size 27.5 nm. The saturation magnetization observed for Fe2O3-rGO is less than reported value for the pure Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Thermal properties of as-prepared hybrid nanocomposites MgO-rGO and Fe2O3-rGO showed thermal stability of the prepared nanocomposite over long range of temperature.

  12. Chemically reduced graphene contains inherent metallic impurities present in parent natural and synthetic graphite.

    PubMed

    Ambrosi, Adriano; Chua, Chun Kiang; Khezri, Bahareh; Sofer, Zdeněk; Webster, Richard D; Pumera, Martin

    2012-08-07

    Graphene-related materials are in the forefront of nanomaterial research. One of the most common ways to prepare graphenes is to oxidize graphite (natural or synthetic) to graphite oxide and exfoliate it to graphene oxide with consequent chemical reduction to chemically reduced graphene. Here, we show that both natural and synthetic graphite contain a large amount of metallic impurities that persist in the samples of graphite oxide after the oxidative treatment, and chemically reduced graphene after the chemical reduction. We demonstrate that, despite a substantial elimination during the oxidative treatment of graphite samples, a significant amount of impurities associated to the chemically reduced graphene materials still remain and alter their electrochemical properties dramatically. We propose a method for the purification of graphenes based on thermal treatment at 1,000 °C in chlorine atmosphere to reduce the effect of such impurities on the electrochemical properties. Our findings have important implications on the whole field of graphene research.

  13. Chemically reduced graphene contains inherent metallic impurities present in parent natural and synthetic graphite

    PubMed Central

    Ambrosi, Adriano; Chua, Chun Kiang; Khezri, Bahareh; Sofer, Zdeněk; Webster, Richard D.; Pumera, Martin

    2012-01-01

    Graphene-related materials are in the forefront of nanomaterial research. One of the most common ways to prepare graphenes is to oxidize graphite (natural or synthetic) to graphite oxide and exfoliate it to graphene oxide with consequent chemical reduction to chemically reduced graphene. Here, we show that both natural and synthetic graphite contain a large amount of metallic impurities that persist in the samples of graphite oxide after the oxidative treatment, and chemically reduced graphene after the chemical reduction. We demonstrate that, despite a substantial elimination during the oxidative treatment of graphite samples, a significant amount of impurities associated to the chemically reduced graphene materials still remain and alter their electrochemical properties dramatically. We propose a method for the purification of graphenes based on thermal treatment at 1,000 °C in chlorine atmosphere to reduce the effect of such impurities on the electrochemical properties. Our findings have important implications on the whole field of graphene research. PMID:22826262

  14. Facile synthesis of iron oxides/reduced graphene oxide composites: application for electromagnetic wave absorption at high temperature.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Lili; Yu, Xinxin; Hu, Hongrui; Li, Yang; Wu, Mingzai; Wang, Zhongzhu; Li, Guang; Sun, Zhaoqi; Chen, Changle

    2015-03-19

    Iron oxides/reduced graphene oxide composites were synthesized by facile thermochemical reactions of graphite oxide and FeSO4 · 7H2O. By adjusting reaction temperature, α-Fe2O3/reduced graphene oxide and Fe3O4/reduced graphene oxide composites can be obtained conveniently. Graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide sheets were demonstrated to regulate the phase transition from α-Fe2O3 to Fe3O4 via γ-Fe2O3, which was reported for the first time. The hydroxyl groups attached on the graphene oxide sheets and H2 gas generated during the annealing of graphene oxide are believed to play an important role during these phase transformations. These samples showed good electromagnetic wave absorption performance due to their electromagnetic complementary effect. These samples possess much better electromagnetic wave absorption properties than the mixture of separately prepared Fe3O4 with rGO, suggesting the crucial role of synthetic method in determining the product properties. Also, these samples perform much better than commercial absorbers. Most importantly, the great stability of these composites is highly advantageous for applications as electromagnetic wave absorption materials at high temperatures.

  15. Facile synthesis of iron oxides/reduced graphene oxide composites: application for electromagnetic wave absorption at high temperature

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Lili; Yu, Xinxin; Hu, Hongrui; Li, Yang; Wu, Mingzai; Wang, Zhongzhu; Li, Guang; Sun, Zhaoqi; Chen, Changle

    2015-01-01

    Iron oxides/reduced graphene oxide composites were synthesized by facile thermochemical reactions of graphite oxide and FeSO4·7H2O. By adjusting reaction temperature, α-Fe2O3/reduced graphene oxide and Fe3O4/reduced graphene oxide composites can be obtained conveniently. Graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide sheets were demonstrated to regulate the phase transition from α-Fe2O3 to Fe3O4 via γ-Fe2O3, which was reported for the first time. The hydroxyl groups attached on the graphene oxide sheets and H2 gas generated during the annealing of graphene oxide are believed to play an important role during these phase transformations. These samples showed good electromagnetic wave absorption performance due to their electromagnetic complementary effect. These samples possess much better electromagnetic wave absorption properties than the mixture of separately prepared Fe3O4 with rGO, suggesting the crucial role of synthetic method in determining the product properties. Also, these samples perform much better than commercial absorbers. Most importantly, the great stability of these composites is highly advantageous for applications as electromagnetic wave absorption materials at high temperatures. PMID:25788158

  16. Synthesis of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide using volumetric method by a novel approach without NaNO2 or NaNO3

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gunda, Rajitha; Madireddy, Buchi Suresh; Dash, Raj Kishora

    2018-02-01

    In the present work, graphite was processed to graphene oxide (GO) using modified Hummer's method by volumetric titration approach, without attaining zero temperature and the addition of toxic chemicals (NaNO2/NaNO3). The complete oxidation of graphite to graphene oxide was obtained by controlled addition (volumetric titration) of KMnO4. The addition of higher KMnO4 resulted in partial oxidation and 2-3 mono-layers with less defects/disordered structure of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets were achieved. Samples were analyzed by XRD, FT-IR, Raman analysis, and TEM analysis. X-ray diffraction displayed the oxidized peak of graphene oxide at 11.9° and reduced graphene oxide at 23.8°. The prolonged stability of the synthesized GO with lower mole ratios of oxidizing agent was confirmed from UV-visible spectroscopy. Based on the results, processed graphene oxide is found to be a candidate material for thermally stable capacitor application.

  17. Synthesis of reduced graphene oxide-anatase TiO2 nanocomposite and its improved photo-induced charge transfer properties.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ping; Zhai, Yueming; Wang, Dejun; Dong, Shaojun

    2011-04-01

    The construction of reduced graphene oxide or graphene oxide with semiconductor has gained more and more attention due to its unexpected optoelectronic and electronic properties. The synthesis of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) or graphene oxide-semiconductor nanocomposite with well-dispersed decorated particles is still a challenge now. Herein, we demonstrate a facile method for the synthesis of graphene oxide-amorphous TiO(2) and reduced graphene oxide-anatase TiO(2) nanocomposites with well-dispersed particles. The as-synthesized samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The photovoltaic properties of RGO-anatase TiO(2) were also compared with that of similar sized anatase TiO(2) by transient photovoltage technique, and it was interesting to find that the combination of reduced graphene oxide with anatase TiO(2) will significantly increase the photovoltaic response and retard the recombination of electron-hole pairs in the excited anatase TiO(2).

  18. Nonlinear optical enhancement induced by synergistic effect of graphene nanosheets and CdS nanocrystals

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhu, Baohua, E-mail: bhzhu@henu.edu.cn, E-mail: yzgu@henu.edu.cn; Cao, Yawan; Wang, Chong

    2016-06-20

    CdS nanocrystals are attached on graphene nanosheets and their nonlinear optical properties are investigated by picosecond Z-scan technique at 532 nm. We found that synergistic effect between the graphene and CdS makes a major enhancement on the nonlinear optical absorption of graphene/CdS nanohybrid in comparison with cooperative effect, and the synergistic improvement is restricted by nonradiative defects in hybrid. The synergistic mechanism involving the local field theory and charge transfer evolution is proposed.

  19. Mechanical property enhancement of high conductive reduced graphene oxide fiber by a small loading of polydopamine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zeng, Jie; Liu, Yuhang; Han, Di; Yu, Bowen; Deng, Sha; Chen, Feng; Fu, Qiang

    2018-04-01

    Improving the interaction of individual reduced graphene oxide sheet is an effective way to enhance the mechanical property of reduced graphene oxide fiber. In this study, to enhance the interaction forces of graphene sheets, large-sized graphene oxide sheets were used to assemble graphene fiber, and dopamine was mixed with the graphene oxide spinning drop. During the wet-spinning procedure, polydopamine was formed by polymerizing. It is found that such obtained composite fiber shows enhanced tensile strength (increased from 314 MPa to 527 MPa) and increased toughness (increased from 3.5 MJ m‑3 to 12.9 MJ m‑3) compared with pure reduced graphene oxide fiber. Fourier-transform infrared spectra, Raman spectra and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were performed to characterize the interaction between reduced graphene oxide sheets and polydopamine, and a possible enhancement mechanism of C-N bonds formation was proposed. It is suggested that this newly formed C‑N bonds can not only enhance the tensile strength, but also increase the elongation simultaneously. Additionally, the graphene fiber remains great electrical conductivity (33 100 s m‑1) since the conductive network can be maintained.

  20. Fine-tuning the Wall Thickness of Ordered Mesoporous Graphene by Exploiting Ligand Exchange of Colloidal Nanocrystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Han, Dandan; Yan, Yancui; Wei, Jishi; Wang, Biwei; Li, Tongtao; Guo, Guannan; Yang, Dong; Xie, Songhai; Dong, Angang

    2017-12-01

    Because of their unique physical properties, three-dimensional (3D) graphene has attracted enormous attention over the past years. However, it is still a challenge to precisely control the layer thickness of 3D graphene. Here, we report a novel strategy to rationally adjust the wall thickness of ordered mesoporous graphene (OMG). By taking advantage of ligand exchange capability of colloidal Fe3O4 nanocrystals, we are able to fine-tune the wall thickness of OMG from 2 to 6 layers of graphene by tailoring the hydrocarbon ligands attached to the nanocrystal surface. When evaluated as electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction upon S and N doping, the 4-layer OMG is found to show better catalytic performance compared with its 2- and 6-layer counterparts, which we attribute to the enhanced exposure of active sites resulting from its ultrathin wall thickness and high surface area.

  1. A simple route to improve rate performance of LiFePO4/reduced graphene oxide composite cathode by adding Mg2+ via mechanical mixing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Yuan; Liu, Hao; Gong, Li; Hou, Yanglong; Li, Quan

    2017-04-01

    Introducing Mg2+ to LiFePO4 and reduced graphene oxide composite via mechanical mixing and annealing leads to largely improved rate performance of the cathode (e.g. ∼78 mA h g-1 at 20 C for LiFePO4 and reduced graphene oxide composite with Mg2+ introduction vs. ∼37 mA h g-1 at 20 C for LiFePO4 and reduced graphene oxide composite). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy unravels that the enhanced reduction of Fe2+ to Fe0 occurs in the simultaneous presence of Mg2+ and reduced graphene oxide, which is beneficial for the rate capability of cathode. The simple fabrication process provides a simple and effective means to improve the rate performance of the LiFePO4 and reduced graphene oxide composite cathode.

  2. One-pot size-controlled growth of graphene-encapsulated germanium nanocrystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Jae-Hyun; Lee, Eun-Kyung; Kang, Seog-Gyun; Jung, Su-Ho; Son, Seok-Kyun; Nam, Woo Hyun; Kim, Tae-Hoon; Choi, Byong Lyong; Whang, Dongmok

    2018-05-01

    To realize graphene-encapsulated semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs), an additional graphene coating process, which causes shape destruction and chemical contamination, has so far been inevitable. We report herein one-pot growth of uniform graphene-germanium core-shell nanocrystals (Ge@G NCs) in gram scale by the addition of methane as a carbon source during the thermal pyrolysis of germane. The methane plays a critical role in the growth of the graphene shell, as well as in the determination of the nucleation density and diameter of the NCs, similar to a surfactant in the liquid-phase growth of monodisperse NCs. By adjusting the gas ratio of precursors, a mixture of germane and methane, we can control the size of the Ge@G NCs in the range of ∼5-180 nm. The Ge@G NCs were characterized by various microscopic and spectroscopic tools, which indicated that the Ge core is single crystalline, and is completely covered by the graphene shell. We further investigated the merits of the graphene shell, which can enhance the electrical conductivity of nanocrystalline materials.

  3. Casein mediated green synthesis and decoration of reduced graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maddinedi, Sireesh Babu; Mandal, Badal Kumar; Vankayala, Raviraj; Kalluru, Poliraju; Tammina, Sai Kumar; Kiran Kumar, H. A.

    This research is mainly focusing on one-step biosynthesis of graphene from graphene oxide and its stabilization using naturally occurring milk protein, casein. The synthesis of casein reduced graphene oxide (CRGO) was completed within 7 h under reflux at 90 °C with the formation of few layered fine graphene nanosheets. UV-Vis, XRD, XPS analysis data revealed the reduction process of the graphene oxide. Results of FT-IR, HPLC and TEM analysis have shown that the ensuing material consists of graphene decorated with casein molecules. Aspartic acid and glutamic acid residue present in casein molecules are responsible for the reduction of graphene oxide.

  4. X-ray Absorption Study of Graphene Oxide and Transition Metal Oxide Nanocomposites.

    PubMed

    Gandhiraman, Ram P; Nordlund, Dennis; Javier, Cristina; Koehne, Jessica E; Chen, Bin; Meyyappan, M

    2014-08-14

    The surface properties of the electrode materials play a crucial role in determining the performance and efficiency of energy storage devices. Graphene oxide and nanostructures of 3d transition metal oxides were synthesized for construction of electrodes in supercapacitors, and the electronic structure and oxidation states were probed using near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure. Understanding the chemistry of graphene oxide would provide valuable insight into its reactivity and properties as the graphene oxide transformation to reduced-graphene oxide is a key step in the synthesis of the electrode materials. Polarized behavior of the synchrotron X-rays and the angular dependency of the near-edge X-ray absorption fine structures (NEXAFS) have been utilized to study the orientation of the σ and π bonds of the graphene oxide and graphene oxide-metal oxide nanocomposites. The core-level transitions of individual metal oxides and that of the graphene oxide nanocomposite showed that the interaction of graphene oxide with the metal oxide nanostructures has not altered the electronic structure of either of them. As the restoration of the π network is important for good electrical conductivity, the C K edge NEXAFS spectra of reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites confirms the same through increased intensity of the sp 2 -derived unoccupied states π* band. A pronounced angular dependency of the reduced sample and the formation of excitonic peaks confirmed the formation of extended conjugated network.

  5. Facile decoration of TiO2 nanoparticles on graphene for solar degradation of organic dye

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Salem, Shiva; Salem, Amin; Rezaei, Mostafa

    2016-11-01

    The reduced graphene oxide is interesting material for the synthesis of TiO2-based photocatalyst. In the present investigation, blackberry fruit, which contains high levels of anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds, was employed as a reducing agent mainly due to its high antioxidant capacity. The nano-crystalline TiO2 was decorated on different amounts of graphene oxide with sol-gel method and then the photocatalytic activity for degradation of cationic dye was evaluated by UV spectroscopy to achieve the optimum content of graphene oxide. The decoration of anatase nanoparticles on prepared reduced graphene oxide was investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The new composite gives significantly higher activity when is compared to the compositions fabricated by graphene oxide. The compact layer provides a large TiO2-graphene contact area and reduces the electron recombination. The decoration of TiO2 nanoparticles, 5-10 nm, on the graphene oxide reduced by blackberry juice further improves the dye removal. The results imply that the nanoparticle decoration is the key strategy to increase the degradation capacity.

  6. Reduced Graphene Oxide Joins Graphene Oxide to Teach Undergraduate Students Core Chemistry and Nanotechnology Concepts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kondratowicz, Izabela; Nadolska, Malgorzata; Z?elechowska, Kamila

    2018-01-01

    Novel carbon nanomaterials such as reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and graphene oxide (GO) can be easily incorporated into the undergraduate curriculum to discuss basic chemistry and nanotechnology concepts. This paper describes a laboratory experiment designed to study the differences between GO and rGO regarding their physicochemical properties…

  7. Study on IR Properties of Reduced Graphene Oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Deyue; Li, Xiaoxia; Guo, Yuxiang; Zeng, Yurun

    2018-01-01

    Firstly, the reduced graphene oxide was prepared by modified hummer method and characterized. Then, the complex refractive index of reduced graphene oxide in IR band was tested and its IR absorption and radiation properties were researched by correlated calculation. The results show that reduced graphene oxide prepared by hummer method are multilayered graphene with defects and functional groups on its surface. Its absorption in near and far IR bands is strong, but it’s weaker in middle IR band. At the IR atmosphere Window, its normal spectral emissivity decreases with wavelength increasing, and its total normal spectral emissivity in 3 ∼ 5μm and 8 ∼ 14μm are 0.75 and 0.625, respectively. Therefore, reduced graphene oxide can be used as IR absorption and coating materials and have a great potential in microwave and infrared compatible materials.

  8. Green reduction of graphene oxide via Lycium barbarum extract

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hou, Dandan, E-mail: houdandan114@163.com; Liu, Qinfu, E-mail: lqf@cumtb.edu.cn; Cheng, Hongfei, E-mail: h.cheng@cumtb.edu.cn

    The synthesis of graphene from graphene oxide (GO) usually involves toxic reducing agents that are harmful to human health and the environment. Here, we report a facile approach for effective reduction of GO, for the first time, using Lycium barbarum extract as a green and natural reducing agent. The morphology and de-oxidation efficiency of the reduced graphene were characterized and results showed that Lycium barbarum extract can effectively reduce GO into few layered graphene with a high carbon to oxygen ratio (6.5), comparable to that of GO reduced by hydrazine hydrate (6.6). The possible reduction mechanism of GO may bemore » due to the active components existing in Lycium barbarum fruits, which have high binding affinity to the oxygen containing groups to form their corresponding oxides and other by-products. This method avoided the use of any nocuous chemicals, thus facilitating the mass production of graphene and graphene-based bio-materials. - Graphical abstract: Schematic illustration of the preparation of reduced graphene by Lycium barbarum extract. - Highlights: • The Lycium barbarum extract was used for the reduction of graphene oxide. • The obtained few layered graphene exhibited high carbon to oxygen ratio. • This approach can be applied in the preparation of graphene-based bio-materials.« less

  9. Tuning the nonlinear optical absorption of reduced graphene oxide by chemical reduction.

    PubMed

    Shi, Hongfei; Wang, Can; Sun, Zhipei; Zhou, Yueliang; Jin, Kuijuan; Redfern, Simon A T; Yang, Guozhen

    2014-08-11

    Reduced graphene oxides with varying degrees of reduction have been produced by hydrazine reduction of graphene oxide. The linear and nonlinear optical properties of both graphene oxide as well as the reduced graphene oxides have been measured by single beam Z-scan measurement in the picosecond region. The results reveal both saturable absorption and two-photon absorption, strongly dependent on the intensity of the pump pulse: saturable absorption occurs at lower pump pulse intensity (~1.5 GW/cm2 saturation intensity) whereas two-photon absorption dominates at higher intensities (≥5.7 GW/cm2). Intriguingly, we find that the two-photon absorption coefficient (from 1.5 cm/GW to 4.5cm/GW) and the saturation intensity (from 1 GW/cm2 to 2 GW/cm2) vary with chemical reduction, which is ascribed to the varying concentrations of sp2 domains and sp2 clusters in the reduced graphene oxides. Our results not only provide an insight into the evolution of the nonlinear optical coefficient in reduced graphene oxide, but also suggest that chemical engineering techniques may usefully be applied to tune the nonlinear optical properties of various nano-materials, including atomically thick graphene sheets.

  10. Ultraviolet photosensor based on few layered reduced graphene oxide nanosheets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shelke, Nitin T.; Karche, B. R.

    2017-10-01

    Reduced graphene oxide (RGO), a two-dimensional (2D) system, has attracted much interest in photonic applications owing to its ability to absorb light over a broad wavelength. This leads to several studies on RGO-based photosensors. In this paper, chemical oxidation of graphite was carried out at room temperature for the preparation of large area reduced graphene oxide using a modified Hummer's method. The as-prepared reduced graphene oxide was characterized by XRD, Raman spectroscopy, FESEM, and TEM to confirm the absence of impurities and to ascertain their morphology. In addition, the as-prepared reduced graphene oxide for its possible application as UV photosensor is reported. The electric and optoelectronic properties of RGO based UV photosensor shows a fast response and recovery time of 1 s and 3 s; high photoresponsitivity (3.74 AW-1) and quantum efficiency (1274%) indicating that the graphene oxide is an important material for high performance photosensor. This work demonstrates the ultrafast photoresponse with high photoresponsivity, proving its potential as a promising material for optoelectronic devices.

  11. Ultrafine and well dispersed silver nanocrystals on 2D nanosheets: synthesis and application as a multifunctional material for electrochemical catalysis and biosensing.

    PubMed

    Gao, Tao; Yang, Dawei; Ning, Limin; Lei, Lin; Ye, Zonghuang; Li, Genxi

    2014-12-21

    The strong coupling of inorganic nanocrystals with 2D nanosheets to produce function-enhanced nano-materials with uniform size, dispersion, and high coverage density has long been of interest to scientists from various research fields. Here, a simple and effective method has been described to fabricate ultrafine and well dispersed silver nanocrystals (AgNCs) on graphene oxide (GO), based on a facial-induced co-reduction strategy. The synthesized nanohybrid has shown uniform and well dispersed AgNCs (2.9 ± 1.4 nm), individually separated GO sheets, as well as highly covered surface (5250 nanocrystals per square micrometer), indicating the formation of a high-quality GO-based nanohybrid. Moreover, this material shows excellent catalytic activity for oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) and exhibits enhanced signal readout for molecular sensing, demonstrating the potential application of this newly synthesized inorganic hybrid with strong synergistic coupling effects on advanced functional systems.

  12. Self-assembling synthesis of free-standing nanoporous graphene-transition-metal oxide flexible electrodes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Huang, Xiaodan; Sun, Bing; Chen, Shuangqiang; Wang, Guoxiu

    2014-01-01

    The synthesis of nanoporous graphene by a convenient carbon nanofiber assisted self-assembly approach is reported. Porous structures with large pore volumes, high surface areas, and well-controlled pore sizes were achieved by employing spherical silica as hard templates with different diameters. Through a general wet-immersion method, transition-metal oxide (Fe3O4, Co3O4, NiO) nanocrystals can be easily loaded into nanoporous graphene papers to form three-dimensional flexible nanoarchitectures. When directly applied as electrodes in lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors, the materials exhibited superior electrochemical performances, including an ultra-high specific capacity, an extended long cycle life, and a high rate capability. In particular, nanoporous Fe3O4-graphene composites can deliver a reversible specific capacity of 1427.5 mAh g(-1) at a high current density of 1000 mA g(-1) as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries. Furthermore, nanoporous Co3O4-graphene composites achieved a high supercapacitance of 424.2 F g(-1) . This work demonstrated that the as-developed freestanding nanoporous graphene papers could have significant potential for energy storage and conversion applications. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  13. Sulfur nanocrystals anchored graphene composite with highly improved electrochemical performance for lithium-sulfur batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Jun; Dong, Zimin; Wang, Xiuli; Zhao, Xuyang; Tu, Jiangping; Su, Qingmei; Du, Gaohui

    2014-12-01

    Two kinds of graphene-sulfur composites with 50 wt% of sulfur are prepared using hydrothermal method and thermal mixing, respectively. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectra mapping show that sulfur nanocrystals with size of ∼5 nm dispersed on graphene sheets homogeneously for the sample prepared by hydrothermal method (NanoS@G). While for the thermal mixed graphene-sulfur composite (S-G mixture), sulfur shows larger and uneven size (50-200 nm). X-ray Photoelectron Spectra (XPS) reveals the strong chemical bonding between the sulfur nanocrystals and graphene. Comparing with the S-G mixture, the NanoS@G composite shows highly improved electrochemical performance as cathode for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery. The NanoS@G composite delivers an initial capacity of 1400 mAh g-1 with the sulfur utilization of 83.7% at a current density of 335 mA g-1. The capacity keeps above 720 mAh g-1 over 100 cycles. The strong adherence of the sulfur nanocrystals on graphene immobilizes sulfur and polysulfides species and suppressed the "shuttle effect", resulting higher coulombic efficiency and better capacity retention. Electrochemical impedance also suggests that the strong bonding enabled rapid electronic/ionic transport and improved electrochemical kinetics, therefore good rate capability is obtained. These results demonstrate that the NanoS@G composite is a very promising candidate for high-performance Li-S batteries.

  14. Green reduction of graphene oxide via Lycium barbarum extract

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hou, Dandan; Liu, Qinfu; Cheng, Hongfei; Zhang, Hao; Wang, Sen

    2017-02-01

    The synthesis of graphene from graphene oxide (GO) usually involves toxic reducing agents that are harmful to human health and the environment. Here, we report a facile approach for effective reduction of GO, for the first time, using Lycium barbarum extract as a green and natural reducing agent. The morphology and de-oxidation efficiency of the reduced graphene were characterized and results showed that Lycium barbarum extract can effectively reduce GO into few layered graphene with a high carbon to oxygen ratio (6.5), comparable to that of GO reduced by hydrazine hydrate (6.6). The possible reduction mechanism of GO may be due to the active components existing in Lycium barbarum fruits, which have high binding affinity to the oxygen containing groups to form their corresponding oxides and other by-products. This method avoided the use of any nocuous chemicals, thus facilitating the mass production of graphene and graphene-based bio-materials.

  15. The Enzymatic Oxidation of Graphene Oxide

    PubMed Central

    Kotchey, Gregg P.; Allen, Brett L.; Vedala, Harindra; Yanamala, Naveena; Kapralov, Alexander A.; Tyurina, Yulia Y.; Klein-Seetharaman, Judith; Kagan, Valerian E.; Star, Alexander

    2011-01-01

    Two-dimensional graphitic carbon is a new material with many emerging applications, and studying its chemical properties is an important goal. Here, we reported a new phenomenon – the enzymatic oxidation of a single layer of graphitic carbon by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). In the presence of low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (~40 µM), HRP catalyzed the oxidation of graphene oxide, which resulted in the formation of holes on its basal plane. During the same period of analysis, HRP failed to oxidize chemically reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The enzymatic oxidation was characterized by Raman, UV-Vis, EPR and FT-IR spectroscopy, TEM, AFM, SDS-PAGE, and GC-MS. Computational docking studies indicated that HRP was preferentially bound to the basal plane rather than the edge for both graphene oxide and RGO. Due to the more dynamic nature of HRP on graphene oxide, the heme active site of HRP was in closer proximity to graphene oxide compared to RGO, thereby facilitating the oxidation of the basal plane of graphene oxide. We also studied the electronic properties of the reduced intermediate product, holey reduced graphene oxide (hRGO), using field-effect transistor (FET) measurements. While RGO exhibited a V-shaped transfer characteristic similar to a single layer of graphene that was attributed to its zero band gap, hRGO demonstrated a p-type semiconducting behavior with a positive shift in the Dirac points. This p-type behavior rendered hRGO, which can be conceptualized as interconnected graphene nanoribbons, as a potentially attractive material for FET sensors. PMID:21344859

  16. Sponge-like reduced graphene oxide/silicon/carbon nanotube composites for lithium ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fang, Menglu; Wang, Zhao; Chen, Xiaojun; Guan, Shiyou

    2018-04-01

    Three-dimensional sponge-like reduced graphene oxide/silicon/carbon nanotube composites were synthesized by one-step hydrothermal self-assembly using silicon nanoparticles, graphene oxide and amino modified carbon nanotubes to develop high-performance anode materials of lithium ion batteries. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images show the structure of composites that Silicon nanoparticles are coated with reduced graphene oxide while amino modified carbon nanotubes wrap around the reduced graphene oxide in the composites. When applied to lithium ion battery, these composites exhibit high initial specific capacity of 2552 mA h/g at a current density of 0.05 A/g. In addition, reduced graphene oxide/silicon/carbon nanotube composites also have better cycle stability than bare Silicon nanoparticles electrode with the specific capacity of 1215 mA h/g after 100 cycles. The three-dimension sponge-like structure not only ensures the electrical conductivity but also buffers the huge volume change, which has broad potential application in the field of battery.

  17. Quantitative tunneling spectroscopy of nanocrystals

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    First, Phillip N; Whetten, Robert L; Schaaff, T Gregory

    2007-05-25

    The proposed goals of this collaborative work were to systematically characterize the electronic structure and dynamics of 3-dimensional metal and semiconducting nanocrystals using scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/STS) and ballistic electron emission spectroscopy (BEES). This report describes progress in the spectroscopic work and in the development of methods for creating and characterizing gold nanocrystals. During the grant period, substantial effort also was devoted to the development of epitaxial graphene (EG), a very promising materials system with outstanding potential for nanometer-scale ballistic and coherent devices ("graphene" refers to one atomic layer of graphitic, sp2 -bonded carbon atoms [or more loosely, few layers]).more » Funding from this DOE grant was critical for the initial development of epitaxial graphene for nanoelectronics« less

  18. The influence of reduced graphene oxide on electrical conductivity of LiFePO{sub 4}-based composite as cathode material

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Arifin, Muhammad; Aimon, Akfiny Hasdi; Winata, Toto

    2016-02-08

    LiFePO{sub 4} is fascinating cathode active materials for Li-ion batteries application because of their high electrochemical performance such as a stable voltage at 3.45 V and high specific capacity at 170 mAh.g{sup −1}. However, their low intrinsic electronic conductivity and low ionic diffusion are still the hindrance for their further application on Li-ion batteries. Therefore, the efforts to improve their conductivity are very important to elevate their prospecting application as cathode materials. Herein, we reported preparation of additional of reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) into LiFePO{sub 4}-based composite via hydrothermal method and the influence of rGO on electrical conductivity of LiFePO{sub 4}−basedmore » composite by varying mass of rGO in composition. Vibration of LiFePO{sub 4}-based composite was detected on Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra, while single phase of LiFePO{sub 4} nanocrystal was observed on X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern, it furthermore, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images showed that rGO was distributed around LiFePO4-based composite. Finally, the 4-point probe measurement result confirmed that the optimum electrical conductivity is in additional 2 wt% rGO for range 1 to 2 wt% rGO.« less

  19. Lattice Transparency of Graphene.

    PubMed

    Chae, Sieun; Jang, Seunghun; Choi, Won Jin; Kim, Youn Sang; Chang, Hyunju; Lee, Tae Il; Lee, Jeong-O

    2017-03-08

    Here, we demonstrated the transparency of graphene to the atomic arrangement of a substrate surface, i.e., the "lattice transparency" of graphene, by using hydrothermally grown ZnO nanorods as a model system. The growth behaviors of ZnO nanocrystals on graphene-coated and uncoated substrates with various crystal structures were investigated. The atomic arrangements of the nucleating ZnO nanocrystals exhibited a close match with those of the respective substrates despite the substrates being bound to the other side of the graphene. By using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory, we confirmed the energetic favorability of the nucleating phase following the atomic arrangement of the substrate even with the graphene layer present in between. In addition to transmitting information about the atomic lattice of the substrate, graphene also protected its surface. This dual role enabled the hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanorods on a Cu substrate, which otherwise dissolved in the reaction conditions when graphene was absent.

  20. Photochemical Transformation of Graphene Oxide in Sunlight

    EPA Science Inventory

    Graphene oxide (GO) is a graphene derivative that is more easily manufactured in large scale and used to synthesize reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with properties analogous to graphene. In this study, we investigate the photochemical fate of GO under sunlight conditions. The resu...

  1. Electrical characterization of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on organic thin film transistor (OTFT)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Musa, Nurhazwani; Halim, Nurul Farhanah Ab.; Ahmad, Mohd Noor; Zakaria, Zulkhairi; Hashim, Uda

    2017-03-01

    A green method and eco-friendly solution were used to chemically reduce graphene oxide (GO) to graphene using green reductant. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) were prepared by using Tours method. Then, reduced graphene oxides (rGO) were prepared by using three typical reduction agents: L-ascorbic acid (L-AA), formamidinesulfinic acid (FAS) and sodium sulfite (Na2SO3). The reduced materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Graphene based organic thin film transistor (G-OTFT) was prepared by a spin coating and thermal evaporation technique. The electrical characterization of G-OTFT was analyzed by using semiconductor parameter analyzer (SPA). The G-OTFT devices show p-type semiconducting behaviour. This article focuses on the synthesis and reduction of graphene oxide using three different reductants in order to maximise its electrical conductivity. The rGO product demonstrated a good electrical conductivity performance with highly sensitivity sensor.

  2. Characterization of Graphite Oxide and Reduced Graphene Oxide Obtained from Different Graphite Precursors and Oxidized by Different Methods Using Raman Spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Muzyka, Roksana; Drewniak, Sabina; Pustelny, Tadeusz; Chrubasik, Maciej; Gryglewicz, Grażyna

    2018-06-21

    In this paper, the influences of the graphite precursor and the oxidation method on the resulting reduced graphene oxide (especially its composition and morphology) are shown. Three types of graphite were used to prepare samples for analysis, and each of the precursors was oxidized by two different methods (all samples were reduced by the same method of thermal reduction). Each obtained graphite oxide and reduced graphene oxide was analysed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy (RS).

  3. Superior pseudocapacitive behavior of confined lignin nanocrystals for renewable energy-storage materials.

    PubMed

    Kim, Sung-Kon; Kim, Yun Ki; Lee, Hyunjoo; Lee, Sang Bok; Park, Ho Seok

    2014-04-01

    Strong demand for high-performance energy-storage devices has currently motivated the development of emerging capacitive materials that can resolve their critical challenge (i.e., low energy density) and that are renewable and inexpensive energy-storage materials from both environmental and economic viewpoints. Herein, the pseudocapacitive behavior of lignin nanocrystals confined on reduced graphene oxides (RGOs) used for renewable energy-storage materials is demonstrated. The excellent capacitive characteristics of the renewable hybrid electrodes were achieved by synergizing the fast and reversible redox charge transfer of surface-confined quinone and the interplay with electron-conducting RGOs. Accordingly, pseudocapacitors with remarkable rate and cyclic performances (~96 % retention after 3000 cycles) showed a maximum capacitance of 432 F g(-1), which was close to the theoretical capacitance of 482 F g(-1) and sixfold higher than that of RGO (93 F g(-1)). The chemical strategy delineated herein paves the way to develop advanced renewable electrodes for energy-storage applications and understand the redox chemistry of electroactive biomaterials. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  4. Inhibition of palm oil oxidation by zeolite nanocrystals.

    PubMed

    Tan, Kok-Hou; Awala, Hussein; Mukti, Rino R; Wong, Ka-Lun; Rigaud, Baptiste; Ling, Tau Chuan; Aleksandrov, Hristiyan A; Koleva, Iskra Z; Vayssilov, Georgi N; Mintova, Svetlana; Ng, Eng-Poh

    2015-05-13

    The efficiency of zeolite X nanocrystals (FAU-type framework structure) containing different extra-framework cations (Li(+), Na(+), K(+), and Ca(2+)) in slowing the thermal oxidation of palm oil is reported. The oxidation study of palm oil is conducted in the presence of zeolite nanocrystals (0.5 wt %) at 150 °C. Several characterization techniques such as visual analysis, colorimetry, rheometry, total acid number (TAN), FT-IR spectroscopy, (1)H NMR spectroscopy, and Karl Fischer analyses are applied to follow the oxidative evolution of the oil. It was found that zeolite nanocrystals decelerate the oxidation of palm oil through stabilization of hydroperoxides, which are the primary oxidation product, and concurrently via adsorption of the secondary oxidation products (alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and esters). In addition to the experimental results, periodic density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to elucidate further the oxidation process of the palm oil in the presence of zeolite nanocrystals. The DFT calculations show that the metal complexes formed with peroxides are more stable than the complexes with alkenes with the same ions. The peroxides captured in the zeolite X nanocrystals consequently decelerate further oxidation toward formation of acids. Unlike the monovalent alkali metal cations in the zeolite X nanocrystals (K(+), Na(+), and Li(+)), Ca(2+) reduced the acidity of the oil by neutralizing the acidic carboxylate compounds to COO(-)(Ca(2+))1/2 species.

  5. The enzymatic oxidation of graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Kotchey, Gregg P; Allen, Brett L; Vedala, Harindra; Yanamala, Naveena; Kapralov, Alexander A; Tyurina, Yulia Y; Klein-Seetharaman, Judith; Kagan, Valerian E; Star, Alexander

    2011-03-22

    Two-dimensional graphitic carbon is a new material with many emerging applications, and studying its chemical properties is an important goal. Here, we reported a new phenomenon--the enzymatic oxidation of a single layer of graphitic carbon by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). In the presence of low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (∼40 μM), HRP catalyzed the oxidation of graphene oxide, which resulted in the formation of holes on its basal plane. During the same period of analysis, HRP failed to oxidize chemically reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The enzymatic oxidation was characterized by Raman, ultraviolet-visible, electron paramagnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Computational docking studies indicated that HRP was preferentially bound to the basal plane rather than the edge for both graphene oxide and RGO. Owing to the more dynamic nature of HRP on graphene oxide, the heme active site of HRP was in closer proximity to graphene oxide compared to RGO, thereby facilitating the oxidation of the basal plane of graphene oxide. We also studied the electronic properties of the reduced intermediate product, holey reduced graphene oxide (hRGO), using field-effect transistor (FET) measurements. While RGO exhibited a V-shaped transfer characteristic similar to a single layer of graphene that was attributed to its zero band gap, hRGO demonstrated a p-type semiconducting behavior with a positive shift in the Dirac points. This p-type behavior rendered hRGO, which can be conceptualized as interconnected graphene nanoribbons, as a potentially attractive material for FET sensors.

  6. Chemical Functionalization of Graphene Family Members

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vacchi, Isabella Anna; Ménard-Moyon, Cécilia; Bianco, Alberto

    2017-01-01

    Thanks to their outstanding physicochemical properties, graphene and its derivatives are interesting nanomaterials with a high potential in several fields. Graphene, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide, however, differ partially in their characteristics due to their diverse surface composition. Those differences influence the chemical reactivity of these materials. In the following chapter the reactivity and main functionalization reactions performed on graphene, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide are discussed. A part is also dedicated to the main analytical techniques used for characterization of these materials. Functionalization of graphene and its derivatives is highly important to modulate their characteristics and design graphene-based conjugates with novel properties. Functionalization can be covalent by forming strong and stable bonds with the graphene surface, or non-covalent via π-π, electrostatic, hydrophobic, and/or van der Waals interactions. Both types of functionalization are currently exploited.

  7. Lateral photovoltaic effect in flexible free-standing reduced graphene oxide film for self-powered position-sensitive detection

    PubMed Central

    Moon, In Kyu; Ki, Bugeun; Yoon, Seonno; Oh, Jungwoo

    2016-01-01

    Lightweight, simple and flexible self-powered photodetectors are urgently required for the development and application of advanced optical systems for the future of wearable electronic technology. Here, using a low-temperature reduction process, we report a chemical approach for producing freestanding monolithic reduced graphene oxide papers with different gradients of the carbon/oxygen concentration ratio. We also demonstrate a novel type of freestanding monolithic reduced graphene oxide self-powered photodetector based on a symmetrical metal–semiconductor–metal structure. Upon illumination by a 633-nm continuous wave laser, the lateral photovoltage is observed to vary linfearly with the laser position between two electrodes on the reduced graphene oxide surface. This result may suggest that the lateral photovoltaic effect in the reduced graphene oxide film originates from the built-in electric field by the combination of both the photothermal electric effect and the gradient of the oxygen-to-carbon composition. These results represent substantial progress toward novel, chemically synthesized graphene-based photosensors and suggest one-step integration of graphene-based optoelectronics in the future. PMID:27634110

  8. Photochemical transformation of graphene oxide in sunlight (journal)

    EPA Science Inventory

    Graphene oxide (GO) is a graphene derivative that is more easily manufactured in large scale and used to synthesize reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with properties analogous to graphene. In this study, we investigate the photochemical fate of GO under sunlight conditions. The resu...

  9. Fabrication and characterization on reduced graphene oxide field effect transistor (RGOFET) based biosensor

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rashid, A. Diyana; Ruslinda, A. Rahim, E-mail: ruslinda@unimap.edu.my; Fatin, M. F.

    2016-07-06

    The fabrication and characterization on reduced graphene oxide field effect transistor (RGO-FET) were demonstrated using a spray deposition method for biological sensing device purpose. A spray method is a fast, low-cost and simple technique to deposit graphene and the most promising technology due to ideal coating on variety of substrates and high production speed. The fabrication method was demonstrated for developing a label free aptamer reduced graphene oxide field effect transistor biosensor. Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was obtained by heating on hot plate fixed at various temperatures of 100, 200 and 300°C, respectively. The surface morphology of RGO were examinedmore » via atomic force microscopy to observed the temperature effect of produced RGO. The electrical measurement verify the performance of electrical conducting RGO-FET at temperature 300°C is better as compared to other temperature due to the removal of oxygen groups in GO. Thus, reduced graphene oxide was a promising material for biosensor application.« less

  10. Eco-friendly approach towards green synthesis of zinc oxide nanocrystals and its potential applications.

    PubMed

    Velmurugan, Palanivel; Park, Jung-Hee; Lee, Sang-Myeong; Yi, Young-Joo; Cho, Min; Jang, Jum-Suk; Myung, Hyun; Bang, Keuk-Soo; Oh, Byung-Taek

    2016-09-01

    In the present study, we investigated a novel green route for synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals using Prunus × yedoensis Matsumura leaf extract as a reducing agent without using any surfactant or external energy. Standard characterization studies were carried out to confirm the obtained product using UV-Vis spectra, SEM-EDS, FTIR, TEM, and XRD. In addition, the synthesized ZnO nanocrystals were coated onto fabric and leather samples to study their bacteriostatic effect against odor-causing bacteria Brevibacterium linens and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Zinc oxide nanocrystal-coated fabric and leather showed good activity against both bacteria.

  11. Impedance spectroscopy studies in cobalt ferrite-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Supriya, Sweety, E-mail: sweety@iitp.ac.in; Kumar, Sunil, E-mail: sunil.pph13@iitp.ac.in; Kar, Manoranjan, E-mail: mano@iitp.ac.in

    2016-05-06

    (1-x)Cobalt ferrite-(x)reduced graphene oxidenanocomposites with x=0, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 were prepared by the ultrasonic method. The crystal symmetry modification due to reduced graphene oxide and cobalt ferrite interaction has been studied by employing the X-ray diffraction technique. Morphology of the samples was studied by the Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Study on electrical properties of the cobalt ferrite-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites explores the possible application of these composites as anode material. Impedance decreases with an increase in frequency as well as temperature, which supports an increase in ac electrical conductivity. The modified Debye relaxation model can explain themore » behavior of impedance in cobalt ferrite-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites.« less

  12. Confined Sulfur in 3 D MXene/Reduced Graphene Oxide Hybrid Nanosheets for Lithium-Sulfur Battery.

    PubMed

    Bao, Weizhai; Xie, Xiuqiang; Xu, Jing; Guo, Xin; Song, Jianjun; Wu, Wenjian; Su, Dawei; Wang, Guoxiu

    2017-09-12

    Three-dimensional metal carbide MXene/reduced graphene oxide hybrid nanosheets are prepared and applied as a cathode host material for lithium-sulfur batteries. The composite cathodes are obtained through a facile and effective two-step liquid-phase impregnation method. Owing to the unique 3 D layer structure and functional 2 D surfaces of MXene and reduced graphene oxide nanosheets for effective trapping of sulfur and lithium polysulfides, the MXene/reduced graphene oxide/sulfur composite cathodes deliver a high initial capacity of 1144.2 mAh g -1 at 0.5 C and a high level of capacity retention of 878.4 mAh g -1 after 300 cycles. It is demonstrated that hybrid metal carbide MXene/reduced graphene oxide nanosheets could be a promising cathode host material for lithium-sulfur batteries. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  13. Depositing of CuS nanocrystals upon the graphene scaffold and their photocatalytic activities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Yongbin; Zhang, Lixin; Jiu, Hongfang; Li, Na; Sun, Yixin

    2014-06-01

    A series of copper sulfide nanocrystals/graphene nanocomposites (CuS/GR) with different weight ratios of GR were fabricated via a one-step hydrothermal approach by using dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as the source of sulfur and solvent. The as-prepared samples were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), transmission scanning electron microscopy (TEM) and photoluminescence spectra (PL) are employed to determine the properties of the samples. The results show that the CuS nanocrystals with an average size of 16 nm almost overspread on the GR graphene scaffold. The samples exhibit excellent photocatalytic activities in degrading the methylene blue (MB) compared with pure CuS. This work shows that CuS/GR nanocomposites would be promising in dye wastewater treatment as Fenton-like reagents.

  14. Dielectric Properties of Reduced Graphene Oxide/Copper Phthalocyanine Nanocomposites Fabricated Through π- π Interaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Zicheng; Wei, Renbo; Liu, Xiaobo

    2017-01-01

    Reduced graphene oxide/copper phthalocyanine nanocomposites are successfully prepared through a simple and effective two-step method, involving preferential reduction of graphene oxide and followed by self-assembly with copper phthalocyanine. The results of photographs, ultraviolet visible, x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy show that the in situ blending method can effectively facilitate graphene sheets to disperse homogenously in the copper phthalocyanine matrix through π- π interactions. As a result, the reduction of graphene oxide and restoration of the sp 2 carbon sites in graphene can enhance the dielectric properties and alternating current conductivity of copper phthalocyanine effectively.

  15. Solvothermal fabrication and enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity of Cu2O-reduced graphene oxide composite microspheres for photodegradation of Rhodamine B

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Lingling; Wang, Guohong; Hao, Ruirui; Han, Deyan; Cao, Sheng

    2015-12-01

    The addition of graphene oxide (GO) in the semiconductors has been regarded as one of the effective methods to enhance their photocatalytic activity. In this study, Cu2O-reduced graphene oxide (Cu2O-rGO) composites with low loading (0-0.5 wt.%) of graphene oxide (GO) were produced by a one-step green solvothermal method in ethanol system by using Cu(NO3)2·3H2O and glutamic acid as copper precursor and reducing agent, respectively. During the solvothermal treatment, GO was reduced to rGO. The as-prepared Cu2O-reduced graphene oxide composite microspheres exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity toward the degradation of RhB aqueous solution under visible light irradiation. At the optimal loading of graphene oxide (0.05 wt.%), Cu2O-rGO composites showed the highest photocatalytic activity, exceeding that of pure Cu2O and commercial Degussa P25 by a factor of 2.9 and 7.9, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic activity may be ascribed to the strong coupling interaction between Cu2O particles and rGO nanosheets, which reduces the recombination of charge carriers.

  16. Ultra-fast self-assembly and stabilization of reactive nanoparticles in reduced graphene oxide films

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Yanan; Egan, Garth C.; Wan, Jiayu; Zhu, Shuze; Jacob, Rohit Jiji; Zhou, Wenbo; Dai, Jiaqi; Wang, Yanbin; Danner, Valencia A.; Yao, Yonggang; Fu, Kun; Wang, Yibo; Bao, Wenzhong; Li, Teng; Zachariah, Michael R.; Hu, Liangbing

    2016-01-01

    Nanoparticles hosted in conductive matrices are ubiquitous in electrochemical energy storage, catalysis and energetic devices. However, agglomeration and surface oxidation remain as two major challenges towards their ultimate utility, especially for highly reactive materials. Here we report uniformly distributed nanoparticles with diameters around 10 nm can be self-assembled within a reduced graphene oxide matrix in 10 ms. Microsized particles in reduced graphene oxide are Joule heated to high temperature (∼1,700 K) and rapidly quenched to preserve the resultant nano-architecture. A possible formation mechanism is that microsized particles melt under high temperature, are separated by defects in reduced graphene oxide and self-assemble into nanoparticles on cooling. The ultra-fast manufacturing approach can be applied to a wide range of materials, including aluminium, silicon, tin and so on. One unique application of this technique is the stabilization of aluminium nanoparticles in reduced graphene oxide film, which we demonstrate to have excellent performance as a switchable energetic material. PMID:27515900

  17. Graphene prepared by thermal reduction–exfoliation of graphite oxide: Effect of raw graphite particle size on the properties of graphite oxide and graphene

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dao, Trung Dung; Jeong, Han Mo, E-mail: hmjeong@mail.ulsan.ac.kr

    Highlights: • Effect of raw graphite particle size on properties of GO and graphene is reported. • Size of raw graphite affects oxidation degree and chemical structure of GO. • Highly oxidized GO results in small-sized but well-exfoliated graphene. • GO properties affect reduction degree, structure, and conductivity of graphene. - Abstract: We report the effect of raw graphite size on the properties of graphite oxide and graphene prepared by thermal reduction–exfoliation of graphite oxide. Transmission electron microscope analysis shows that the lateral size of graphene becomes smaller when smaller size graphite is used. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms that graphitemore » with smaller size is more effectively oxidized, resulting in a more effective subsequent exfoliation of the obtained graphite oxide toward graphene. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates that reduction of the graphite oxide derived from smaller size graphite into graphene is more efficient. However, Raman analysis suggests that the average size of the in-plane sp{sup 2}-carbon domains on graphene is smaller when smaller size graphite is used. The enhanced reduction degree and the reduced size of sp{sup 2}-carbon domains contribute contradictively to the electrical conductivity of graphene when the particle size of raw graphite reduces.« less

  18. Antibacterial activity of graphite, graphite oxide, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide: membrane and oxidative stress.

    PubMed

    Liu, Shaobin; Zeng, Tingying Helen; Hofmann, Mario; Burcombe, Ehdi; Wei, Jun; Jiang, Rongrong; Kong, Jing; Chen, Yuan

    2011-09-27

    Health and environmental impacts of graphene-based materials need to be thoroughly evaluated before their potential applications. Graphene has strong cytotoxicity toward bacteria. To better understand its antimicrobial mechanism, we compared the antibacterial activity of four types of graphene-based materials (graphite (Gt), graphite oxide (GtO), graphene oxide (GO), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)) toward a bacterial model-Escherichia coli. Under similar concentration and incubation conditions, GO dispersion shows the highest antibacterial activity, sequentially followed by rGO, Gt, and GtO. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and dynamic light scattering analyses show that GO aggregates have the smallest average size among the four types of materials. SEM images display that the direct contacts with graphene nanosheets disrupt cell membrane. No superoxide anion (O(2)(•-)) induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is detected. However, the four types of materials can oxidize glutathione, which serves as redox state mediator in bacteria. Conductive rGO and Gt have higher oxidation capacities than insulating GO and GtO. Results suggest that antimicrobial actions are contributed by both membrane and oxidation stress. We propose that a three-step antimicrobial mechanism, previously used for carbon nanotubes, is applicable to graphene-based materials. It includes initial cell deposition on graphene-based materials, membrane stress caused by direct contact with sharp nanosheets, and the ensuing superoxide anion-independent oxidation. We envision that physicochemical properties of graphene-based materials, such as density of functional groups, size, and conductivity, can be precisely tailored to either reducing their health and environmental risks or increasing their application potentials. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  19. Fast and fully-scalable synthesis of reduced graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdolhosseinzadeh, Sina; Asgharzadeh, Hamed; Seop Kim, Hyoung

    2015-05-01

    Exfoliation of graphite is a promising approach for large-scale production of graphene. Oxidation of graphite effectively facilitates the exfoliation process, yet necessitates several lengthy washing and reduction processes to convert the exfoliated graphite oxide (graphene oxide, GO) to reduced graphene oxide (RGO). Although filtration, centrifugation and dialysis have been frequently used in the washing stage, none of them is favorable for large-scale production. Here, we report the synthesis of RGO by sonication-assisted oxidation of graphite in a solution of potassium permanganate and concentrated sulfuric acid followed by reduction with ascorbic acid prior to any washing processes. GO loses its hydrophilicity during the reduction stage which facilitates the washing step and reduces the time required for production of RGO. Furthermore, simultaneous oxidation and exfoliation significantly enhance the yield of few-layer GO. We hope this one-pot and fully-scalable protocol paves the road toward out of lab applications of graphene.

  20. Athermally photoreduced graphene oxides for three-dimensional holographic images

    PubMed Central

    Li, Xiangping; Ren, Haoran; Chen, Xi; Liu, Juan; Li, Qin; Li, Chengmingyue; Xue, Gaolei; Jia, Jia; Cao, Liangcai; Sahu, Amit; Hu, Bin; Wang, Yongtian; Jin, Guofan; Gu, Min

    2015-01-01

    The emerging graphene-based material, an atomic layer of aromatic carbon atoms with exceptional electronic and optical properties, has offered unprecedented prospects for developing flat two-dimensional displaying systems. Here, we show that reduced graphene oxide enabled write-once holograms for wide-angle and full-colour three-dimensional images. This is achieved through the discovery of subwavelength-scale multilevel optical index modulation of athermally reduced graphene oxides by a single femtosecond pulsed beam. This new feature allows for static three-dimensional holographic images with a wide viewing angle up to 52 degrees. In addition, the spectrally flat optical index modulation in reduced graphene oxides enables wavelength-multiplexed holograms for full-colour images. The large and polarization-insensitive phase modulation over π in reduced graphene oxide composites enables to restore vectorial wavefronts of polarization discernible images through the vectorial diffraction of a reconstruction beam. Therefore, our technique can be leveraged to achieve compact and versatile holographic components for controlling light. PMID:25901676

  1. Synergistic toughening of composite fibres by self-alignment of reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes.

    PubMed

    Shin, Min Kyoon; Lee, Bommy; Kim, Shi Hyeong; Lee, Jae Ah; Spinks, Geoffrey M; Gambhir, Sanjeev; Wallace, Gordon G; Kozlov, Mikhail E; Baughman, Ray H; Kim, Seon Jeong

    2012-01-31

    The extraordinary properties of graphene and carbon nanotubes motivate the development of methods for their use in producing continuous, strong, tough fibres. Previous work has shown that the toughness of the carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer fibres exceeds that of previously known materials. Here we show that further increased toughness results from combining carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide flakes in solution-spun polymer fibres. The gravimetric toughness approaches 1,000 J g(-1), far exceeding spider dragline silk (165 J g(-1)) and Kevlar (78 J g(-1)). This toughness enhancement is consistent with the observed formation of an interconnected network of partially aligned reduced graphene oxide flakes and carbon nanotubes during solution spinning, which act to deflect cracks and allow energy-consuming polymer deformation. Toughness is sensitive to the volume ratio of the reduced graphene oxide flakes to the carbon nanotubes in the spinning solution and the degree of graphene oxidation. The hybrid fibres were sewable and weavable, and could be shaped into high-modulus helical springs.

  2. Fluorescence intermittency originates from reclustering in two-dimensional organic semiconductors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ruth, Anthony; Hayashi, Michitoshi; Zapol, Peter; Si, Jixin; McDonald, Matthew P.; Morozov, Yurii V.; Kuno, Masaru; Jankó, Boldizsár

    2017-02-01

    Fluorescence intermittency or blinking is observed in nearly all nanoscale fluorophores. It is characterized by universal power-law distributions in on- and off-times as well as 1/f behaviour in corresponding emission power spectral densities. Blinking, previously seen in confined zero- and one-dimensional systems has recently been documented in two-dimensional reduced graphene oxide. Here we show that unexpected blinking during graphene oxide-to-reduced graphene oxide photoreduction is attributed, in large part, to the redistribution of carbon sp2 domains. This reclustering generates fluctuations in the number/size of emissive graphenic nanoclusters wherein multiscale modelling captures essential experimental aspects of reduced graphene oxide's absorption/emission trajectories, while simultaneously connecting them to the underlying photochemistry responsible for graphene oxide's reduction. These simulations thus establish causality between currently unexplained, long timescale emission intermittency in a quantum mechanical fluorophore and identifiable chemical reactions that ultimately lead to switching between on and off states.

  3. Membrane of Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanoplates with Angstrom-Level Channels

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Byeongho; Li, Kunzhou; Yoon, Hong Sik; Yoon, Jeyong; Mok, Yeongbong; Lee, Yan; Lee, Hong H.; Kim, Yong Hyup

    2016-01-01

    Membranes with atomic level pores or constrictions are valuable for separation and catalysis. We report a graphene-based membrane with an interlayer spacing of 3.7 angstrom (Å). When graphene oxide nanoplates are functionalized and then reduced, the laminated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanoplates or functionalized rGO membrane is little affected by an intercalated fluid, and the interlayer spacing of 3.7 Å increases only to 4.4 Å in wetted state, in contrast to the graphene oxide (GO) membrane whose interlayer spacing increases from 9 Å to 13 Å in wetted state. When applied to ion separation, this membrane reduced the permeation rate of small ions such as K+ and Na+ by three orders of magnitude compared to the GO membrane. PMID:27306853

  4. Platinum Electrodeposition at Unsupported Electrochemically Reduced Nanographene Oxide for Enhanced Ammonia Oxidation

    PubMed Central

    2015-01-01

    The electrochemical reduction of highly oxidized unsupported graphene oxide nanosheets and its platinum electrodeposition was done by the rotating disk slurry electrode technique. Avoiding the use of a solid electrode, graphene oxide was electrochemically reduced in a slurry solution with a scalable process without the use of a reducing agent. Graphene oxide nanosheets were synthesized from carbon platelet nanofibers to obtain highly hydrophilic layers of less than 250 nm in width. The graphene oxide and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide/Pt (erGOx/Pt) hybrid materials were characterized through different spectroscopy and microscopy techniques. Pt nanoparticles with 100 facets, clusters, and atoms at erGOx were identified by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Cyclic voltammetry was used to characterize the electrocatalytic activity of the highly dispersed erGOx/Pt hybrid material toward the oxidation of ammonia, which showed a 5-fold current density increase when compared with commercially available Vulcan/Pt 20%. This is in agreement with having Pt (100) facets present in the HRTEM images of the erGOx/Pt material. PMID:24417177

  5. Green conversion of graphene oxide to graphene nanosheets and its biosafety study

    PubMed Central

    Dasgupta, Adhiraj; Sarkar, Joy; Ghosh, Manosij; Bhattacharya, Amartya; Mukherjee, Anita; Chattopadhyay, Dipankar

    2017-01-01

    Chemical reduction of graphene oxide (GO) to graphene employs the use of toxic and environmentally harmful reducing agents, hindering mass production of graphene which is of tremendous technological importance. In this study we report a green approach to the synthesis of graphene, bio-reduced by crude polysaccharide. The polysaccharide reduces exfoliated GO to graphene at room temperature in an aqueous medium. Transmission electron microscopy image provides clear evidence for the formation of few layer graphene. Characterization of the resulting polysaccharide reduced GO by Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis confirms reduction of GO to graphene. We also investigated the degree of biosafety of the reduced GO and found it to be safe under 100 μg/ml. PMID:28158272

  6. Biofabrication of polyphenols stabilized reduced graphene oxide and its anti-tuberculosis activity.

    PubMed

    Han, Wei; Niu, Wen-Yi; Sun, Bing; Shi, Guang-Can; Cui, Xiu-Qin

    2016-12-01

    A facile one step eco-friendly method for the reduction graphene oxide by Cinnamomumverum (C. verum) bark extract is reported in this work. This approach avoids the utilization of hazardous chemical reagents. The characterization results of various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques for the prepared graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) afford a strong indication of the removal of oxygen functionalities of GO after reduction and following stabilization by the oxidised polyphenols. Fourier transform infrared spectral results showed the capping of oxidised polyphenols onto the surface of reduced graphene oxide which further prevent their aggregation. Additionally, the prepared graphene nanosheets were tested for their antituberculosis activity against standard strain such as M. tuberculosis H37Ra. The obtained results suggested that the synthesized graphene acts as an effective growth inhibitors against M. tuberculosis H37Ra making it applicable for targeted drug delivery by combining with other chemical drugs as a therapeutic index. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Polyelectrolyte-induced reduction of exfoliated graphite oxide: a facile route to synthesis of soluble graphene nanosheets.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Sheng; Shao, Yuyan; Liao, Honggang; Engelhard, Mark H; Yin, Geping; Lin, Yuehe

    2011-03-22

    Here we report that poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) acts as both a reducing agent and a stabilizer to prepare soluble graphene nanosheets from graphite oxide. The results of transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared indicated that graphite oxide was successfully reduced to graphene nanosheets which exhibited single-layer structure and high dispersion in various solvents. The reaction mechanism for PDDA-induced reduction of exfoliated graphite oxide was proposed. Furthermore, PDDA facilitated the in situ growth of highly dispersed Pt nanoparticles on the surface of graphene nanosheets to form Pt/graphene nanocomposites, which exhibited excellent catalytic activity toward formic acid oxidation. This work presents a facile and environmentally friendly approach to the synthesis of graphene nanosheets and opens up a new possibility for preparing graphene and graphene-based nanomaterials for large-scale applications.

  8. Rapid Evaporation of Water on Graphene/Graphene-Oxide: A Molecular Dynamics Study.

    PubMed

    Li, Qibin; Xiao, Yitian; Shi, Xiaoyang; Song, Shufeng

    2017-09-07

    To reveal the mechanism of energy storage in the water/graphene system and water/grapheme-oxide system, the processes of rapid evaporation of water molecules on the sheets of graphene and graphene-oxide are investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. The results show that both the water/graphene and water/grapheme-oxide systems can store more energy than the pure water system during evaporation. The hydroxyl groups on the surface of graphene-oxide are able to reduce the attractive interactions between water molecules and the sheet of graphene-oxide. Also, the radial distribution function of the oxygen atom indicates that the hydroxyl groups affect the arrangement of water molecules at the water/graphene-oxide interface. Therefore, the capacity of thermal energy storage of the water/graphene-oxide system is lower than that of the water/graphene system, because of less desorption energy at the water/graphene-oxide interface. Also, the evaporation rate of water molecules on the graphene-oxide sheet is slower than that on the graphene sheet. The Leidenfrost phenomenon can be observed during the evaporation process in the water/grapheme-oxide system.

  9. Rapid Evaporation of Water on Graphene/Graphene-Oxide: A Molecular Dynamics Study

    PubMed Central

    Li, Qibin; Xiao, Yitian; Shi, Xiaoyang; Song, Shufeng

    2017-01-01

    To reveal the mechanism of energy storage in the water/graphene system and water/grapheme-oxide system, the processes of rapid evaporation of water molecules on the sheets of graphene and graphene-oxide are investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. The results show that both the water/graphene and water/grapheme-oxide systems can store more energy than the pure water system during evaporation. The hydroxyl groups on the surface of graphene-oxide are able to reduce the attractive interactions between water molecules and the sheet of graphene-oxide. Also, the radial distribution function of the oxygen atom indicates that the hydroxyl groups affect the arrangement of water molecules at the water/graphene-oxide interface. Therefore, the capacity of thermal energy storage of the water/graphene-oxide system is lower than that of the water/graphene system, because of less desorption energy at the water/graphene-oxide interface. Also, the evaporation rate of water molecules on the graphene-oxide sheet is slower than that on the graphene sheet. The Leidenfrost phenomenon can be observed during the evaporation process in the water/grapheme-oxide system. PMID:28880207

  10. Epitaxial-graphene/graphene-oxide junction: an essential step towards epitaxial graphene electronics.

    PubMed

    Wu, Xiaosong; Sprinkle, Mike; Li, Xuebin; Ming, Fan; Berger, Claire; de Heer, Walt A

    2008-07-11

    Graphene-oxide (GO) flakes have been deposited to bridge the gap between two epitaxial-graphene electrodes to produce all-graphene devices. Electrical measurements indicate the presence of Schottky barriers at the graphene/graphene-oxide junctions, as a consequence of the band gap in GO. The barrier height is found to be about 0.7 eV, and is reduced after annealing at 180 degrees C, implying that the gap can be tuned by changing the degree of oxidation. A lower limit of the GO mobility was found to be 850 cm2/V s, rivaling silicon. In situ local oxidation of patterned epitaxial graphene has been achieved.

  11. Density functional theory studies of TiO2 for photocatalysis and Li storage applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Yong-Hoon; Lee, Ji Il; Lee, Dong Ki; Lee, Gyu Heon; Kang, Jeung Ku

    We present two theory-experiment collaboration studies of anatase TiO2 for energy applications. First, we discuss a hydrogen-nitrogen co-doped TiO2 (HN-TiO2) as a photocatalyst, and show that the interstitially introduced HN contributes to the increase of solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency. We find that the variation of valence band maximum (VBM) of NH-TiO2 extends the photoactive spectrum to the visible light, and argue that created mid-gap states produce efficient electron and hole conduction channels. Next, we consider experimentally fabricated hierarchical TiO2 nanocrystals integrated with binder-free porous graphene (PG) network foam for a Li storage application. It was found that the TiO2-PG facilitated rapid ionic transfer during the Li-ion insertion/extraction process. We clarify the mechanisms by showing that Li ion migration into the TiO2-PG interface stabilize the binder-free oxide-graphene interface. Atomistic mechanism of Li ion insertion and migration is discussed by comparing cases between an isolated Li ion, when the crowding effect is included, and when the surface Li ions are present. We found that the supply of additional surface Li ions significantly reduce the Li insertion barrier, driving a spontaneous domino-like concerted Li insertion at the oxide surface region.

  12. Zn₂SnO₄-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanohybrids for Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalysis.

    PubMed

    Li, Hui; Wu, Xiang-Feng; Sun, Yang; Zhao, Ze-Hua; Zhang, Chen-Xu; Jia, Fan-Fan; Zhang, Han; Yu, Mai-Tuo; Yang, Xin-Yue

    2018-02-01

    Zn2SnO4-reduced graphene oxide photocatalysts were synthesized by using SnCl4 5H2O, Zn(NO3)2 · 6H2O and graphene oxide via hydrothermal process. The structure, morphology, specific surface area and photo response of the as-prepared nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Transmission electron microscopy, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra, Brunauer-emmett-teller surface area measurement and Photoluminescence emission spectra. Experimental results showed that the Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles, with 20-30 nm a size range, were uniformly dispersed on the surfaces of reduced graphene oxide. Moreover, the as-prepared Zn2SnO4-reduced graphene oxide photocatalysts exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activities for degradation of Rhodamine B compared to those of pure Zn2SnO4. When the amount of reduced graphene oxide was 4 wt%, it showed the highest photocatalytic efficiency of 99.7% for 240 min, and the photocatalytic efficiency was still 98.5% after it was recycled 4 times. It also possessed the band gap of 2.48 eV and specific surface area of 58.1 m2 g-1.

  13. Enhanced Reduction of Graphene Oxide on Recyclable Cu Foils to Fabricate Graphene Films with Superior Thermal Conductivity

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Sheng-Yun; Zhao, Bo; Zhang, Kai; Yuen, Matthew M. F.; Xu, Jian-Bin; Fu, Xian-Zhu; Sun, Rong; Wong, Ching-Ping

    2015-01-01

    Large-area freestanding graphene films are facilely fabricated by reducing graphene oxide films on recyclable Cu foils in H2-containing atmosphere at high temperature. Cu might act as efficient catalysts for considerably improved reduction of graphene oxide according to the SEM, EDS, XRD, XPS, Raman and TGA results. Comparing to the graphene films with ~30 μm thickness reduced without Cu substrate at 900 °C, the thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity of graphene films reduced on Cu foils are enhanced about 140% to 902 Wm−1K−1 and 3.6 × 104 S/m, respectively. Moreover, the graphene films demonstrate superior thermal conductivity of ~1219 Wm−1K−1 as decreasing the thickness of films to ~10 μm. The graphene films also exhibit excellent mechanical properties and flexibility. PMID:26404674

  14. Anomalous behaviour of magnetic coercivity in graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bagani, K.; Bhattacharya, A.; Kaur, J.

    In this report, we present the temperature dependence of the magnetic coercivity of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO). We observe an anomalous decrease in coercivity of GO and RGO with decreasing temperature. The observation could be understood by invoking the inherent presence of wrinkles on graphene oxide due to presence of oxygen containing groups. Scanning electron microscopic image reveals high wrinkles in GO than RGO. We observe higher coercivity in RGO than in GO. At room temperature, we observe antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic behaviours in GO and RGO, respectively. Whereas, at low temperatures (below T = 60–70 K), both materials showmore » paramagnetic behaviour.« less

  15. Nanoparticles containing allotropes of carbon have genotoxic effects on glioblastoma multiforme cells

    PubMed Central

    Hinzmann, Mateusz; Jaworski, Sławomir; Kutwin, Marta; Jagiełło, Joanna; Koziński, Rafał; Wierzbicki, Mateusz; Grodzik, Marta; Lipińska, Ludwika; Sawosz, Ewa; Chwalibog, Andrè

    2014-01-01

    The carbon-based nanomaterial family consists of nanoparticles containing allotropes of carbon, which may have a number of interactions with biological systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the toxicity of nanoparticles comprised of pristine graphene, reduced graphene oxide, graphene oxide, graphite, and ultradispersed detonation diamond in a U87 cell line. The scope of the work consisted of structural analysis of the nanoparticles using transmission electron microscopy, evaluation of cell morphology, and assessment of cell viability by Trypan blue assay and level of DNA fragmentation of U87 cells after 24 hours of incubation with 50 μg/mL carbon nanoparticles. DNA fragmentation was studied using single-cell gel electrophoresis. Incubation with nanoparticles containing the allotropes of carbon did not alter the morphology of the U87 cancer cells. However, incubation with pristine graphene and reduced graphene oxide led to a significant decrease in cell viability, whereas incubation with graphene oxide, graphite, and ultradispersed detonation diamond led to a smaller decrease in cell viability. The results of a comet assay demonstrated that pristine graphene, reduced graphene oxide, graphite, and ultradispersed detonation diamond caused DNA damage and were therefore genotoxic in U87 cells, whereas graphene oxide was not. PMID:24876774

  16. Colloidal Nanocrystals with Near-infrared Optical Properties: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Panthani, Matthew George

    2011-07-01

    Colloidal nanocrystals with optical properties in the near-infrared (NIR) are of interest for many applications such as photovoltaic (PV) energy conversion, bioimaging, and therapeutics. For PVs and other electronic devices, challenges in using colloidal nanomaterials often deal with the surfaces. Because of the high surface-to-volume ratio of small nanocrystals, surfaces and interfaces play an enhanced role in the properties of nanocrystal films and devices. Organic ligand-capped CuInSe2 (CIS) and Cu(InXGa 1-X)Se2 (CIGS) nanocrystals were synthesized and used as the absorber layer in prototype solar cells. By fabricating devices from spray-coated CuInSe nanocrystals under ambient conditions, solar-to-electric power conversion efficiencies as high as 3.1% were achieved. Many treatments of the nanocrystal films were explored. Although some treatments increased the conductivity of the nanocrystal films, the best devices were from untreated CIS films. By modifying the reaction chemistry, quantum-confined CuInSe XS2-X (CISS) nanocrystals were produced. The potential of the CISS nanocrystals for targeted bioimaging was demonstrated via oral delivery to mice and imaging of nanocrystal fluorescence. The size-dependent photoluminescence of Si nanocrystals was measured. Si nanocrystals supported on graphene were characterized by conventional transmission electron microscopy and spherical aberration (Cs)-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Enhanced imaging contrast and resolution was achieved by using Cs-corrected STEM with a graphene support. In addition, clear imaging of defects and the organic-inorganic interface was enabled by utilizing this technique.

  17. Coupling Mo2C@C core-shell nanocrystals on 3D graphene hybrid aerogel for high-performance lithium ion battery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xin, Hailin; Hai, Yang; Li, Dongzhi; Qiu, Zhaozheng; Lin, Yemao; Yang, Bo; Fan, Haosen; Zhu, Caizhen

    2018-05-01

    Hybrid aerogel by dispersing Mo2C@C core-shell nanocrystals into three-dimensional (3D) graphene (Mo2C@C-GA) has been successfully prepared through two-step methods. Firstly, carbon-coated MoO2 nanocrystals uniformly anchor on 3D graphene aerogel (MoO2@C-GA) via hydrothermal reaction. Then the MoO2@C-GA precursor is transformed into Mo2C@C-GA after the following carbonization process. Furthermore, the freeze-drying step plays an important role in the resulting pore size distribution of the porous networks. Moreover, graphene aerogels exhibit extremely low densities and superior electrical properties. When evaluated as anode material for lithium ion battery, Mo2C@C-GA delivers excellent rate capability and stable cycle performance when compared with C-GA and Mo2C nanoparticles. Mo2C@C-GA exhibits the initial discharge capacity of 1461.4 mA h g-1 at the current density of 0.1 A g-1, and retains a reversible capacity of 1089.8 mA h g-1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g-1. Even at high current density of 5 A g-1, a discharge capacity of 623.5 mA h g-1 can be still achieved. The excellent performance of Mo2C@C-GA could be attributed to the synergistic effect of Mo2C@C nanocrystals and the 3D graphene conductive network.

  18. Reduced graphene oxide nanoshells for flexible and stretchable conductors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, Wen-Shuai; Liu, Zhi-Bo; Xin, Wei; Chen, Xu-Dong; Tian, Jian-Guo

    2016-03-01

    Graphene has been extensively investigated for its use in flexible electronics, especially graphene synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). To enhance the flexibility of CVD graphene, wrinkles are often introduced. However, reports on the flexibility of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) films are few, because of their weak conductivity and, in particular, poor flexibility. To improve the flexibility of RGO, reduced graphene oxide nanoshells are fabricated, which combine self-assembled polystyrene nanosphere arrays and high-temperature thermal annealing processes. The resulting RGO films with nanoshells present a better resistance stabilization after stretching and bending the devices than RGO without nanoshells. The sustainability and performance advances demonstrated here are promising for the adoption of flexible electronics in a wide variety of future applications.

  19. Enhanced conductivity of reduced graphene oxide decorated with aluminium oxide nanoparticles by oxygen annealing.

    PubMed

    Liu, Hao; Choy, Kwang-Leong; Roe, Martin

    2013-07-07

    A process involving the filtration of graphene oxide (GO) dispersion through an alumina membrane, followed by oxygen annealing to synthesize alumina nanoparticles exclusively at the edges of holes or vacancies in the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) plane, is used to prepare paper-like composites with a 21% enhanced electrical conductivity. Moreover, the rGO/alumina nanocomposites have a smaller band gap and hydrophilic properties.

  20. Recent advances in experimental basic research on graphene and graphene-based nanostructures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hieu Nguyen, Van

    2016-06-01

    The present work is a review of the results achieved in the experimental basic research on following rapidly developing modern topics of nanoscience and nanotechnology related to graphene and graphene-based nanosystems: reduction of graphene oxide and investigation of physical properties of reduced graphene oxide; fabrication and investigation of graphene quantum dots; study of light emission from excited graphene; fabrication and investigation of graphene nanopores; preparation and investigation of graphene oxide-liquid crystals as well as aqueous graphene oxide dispersions. Besides presenting the scientific content of the above-mentioned five topics in detail, we briefly mention promising and interesting works, demonstrating that the area of basic research on graphene and graphene-based nanostructures is still being enlarged.

  1. Highly efficient removal of Malachite green from water by a magnetic reduced graphene oxide/zeolitic imidazolate framework self-assembled nanocomposite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Kun-Yi Andrew; Lee, Wei-Der

    2016-01-01

    Compared to the relatively low adsorption capacities of conventional adsorbents for Malachite Green (MG) (i.e., ∼500 mg g-1), zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) appears to be a promising adsorbent considering its significantly high adsorption capacity (i.e., >2000 mg g-1). Nevertheless, using such a nano-scale ZIF material for adsorption may lead to secondary contamination from the release of nanomaterials to the environment. Thus, ZIF has to be recovered conveniently to prevent the secondary contamination and facilitate the separation of adsorbent from water after adsorption. To this end, in this study ZIF nanocrystals were loaded on the sheet-like magnetic reduced graphene oxide (MRGO) to form a self-assembled MRGO/ZIF. The self-assembly of MRGO/ZIF was achieved possibly via the electrostatic attraction and the π-π stacking interaction between MRGO and ZIF. The resultant MRGO/ZIF exhibited an ultra-high adsorption capacity for MG (∼3000 mg g-1). The adsorption kinetics, isotherm, activation and thermodynamics were also determined. Other factors affecting the adsorption were examined including temperature, pH and co-existing ions/compound. To demonstrate that MRGO/ZIF can be recovered and reused, a multiple-cycle of MG adsorption using the regenerated MRGO/ZIF was revealed and the recyclability remained highly efficient and stable. The highly-effective, recoverable and re-usable features enable MRGO/ZIF a promising adsorbent to remove MG from water.

  2. Synergistic toughening of composite fibres by self-alignment of reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes

    PubMed Central

    Shin, Min Kyoon; Lee, Bommy; Kim, Shi Hyeong; Lee, Jae Ah; Spinks, Geoffrey M.; Gambhir, Sanjeev; Wallace, Gordon G.; Kozlov, Mikhail E.; Baughman, Ray H.; Kim, Seon Jeong

    2012-01-01

    The extraordinary properties of graphene and carbon nanotubes motivate the development of methods for their use in producing continuous, strong, tough fibres. Previous work has shown that the toughness of the carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer fibres exceeds that of previously known materials. Here we show that further increased toughness results from combining carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide flakes in solution-spun polymer fibres. The gravimetric toughness approaches 1,000 J g−1, far exceeding spider dragline silk (165 J g−1) and Kevlar (78 J g−1). This toughness enhancement is consistent with the observed formation of an interconnected network of partially aligned reduced graphene oxide flakes and carbon nanotubes during solution spinning, which act to deflect cracks and allow energy-consuming polymer deformation. Toughness is sensitive to the volume ratio of the reduced graphene oxide flakes to the carbon nanotubes in the spinning solution and the degree of graphene oxidation. The hybrid fibres were sewable and weavable, and could be shaped into high-modulus helical springs. PMID:22337128

  3. Synthesis of bacteria promoted reduced graphene oxide-nickel sulfide networks for advanced supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Haiming; Yu, Xinzhi; Guo, Di; Qu, Baihua; Zhang, Ming; Li, Qiuhong; Wang, Taihong

    2013-08-14

    Supercapacitors with potential high power are useful and have attracted much attention recently. Graphene-based composites have been demonstrated to be promising electrode materials for supercapacitors with enhanced properties. To improve the performance of graphene-based composites further and realize their synthesis with large scale, we report a green approach to synthesize bacteria-reduced graphene oxide-nickel sulfide (BGNS) networks. By using Bacillus subtilis as spacers, we deposited reduced graphene oxide/Ni3S2 nanoparticle composites with submillimeter pores directly onto substrate by a binder-free electrostatic spray approach to form BGNS networks. Their electrochemical capacitor performance was evaluated. Compared with stacked reduced graphene oxide-nickel sulfide (GNS) prepared without the aid of bacteria, BGNS with unique nm-μm structure exhibited a higher specific capacitance of about 1424 F g(-1) at a current density of 0.75 A g(-1). About 67.5% of the capacitance was retained as the current density increased from 0.75 to 15 A g(-1). At a current density of 75 A g(-1), a specific capacitance of 406 F g(-1) could still remain. The results indicate that the reduced graphene oxide-nickel sulfide network promoted by bacteria is a promising electrode material for supercapacitors.

  4. Thermal Transport in Graphene Oxide – From Ballistic Extreme to Amorphous Limit

    PubMed Central

    Mu, Xin; Wu, Xufei; Zhang, Teng; Go, David B.; Luo, Tengfei

    2014-01-01

    Graphene oxide is being used in energy, optical, electronic and sensor devices due to its unique properties. However, unlike its counterpart – graphene – the thermal transport properties of graphene oxide remain unknown. In this work, we use large-scale molecular dynamics simulations with reactive potentials to systematically study the role of oxygen adatoms on the thermal transport in graphene oxide. For pristine graphene, highly ballistic thermal transport is observed. As the oxygen coverage increases, the thermal conductivity is significantly reduced. An oxygen coverage of 5% can reduce the graphene thermal conductivity by ~90% and a coverage of 20% lower it to ~8.8 W/mK. This value is even lower than the calculated amorphous limit (~11.6 W/mK for graphene), which is usually regarded as the minimal possible thermal conductivity of a solid. Analyses show that the large reduction in thermal conductivity is due to the significantly enhanced phonon scattering induced by the oxygen defects which introduce dramatic structural deformations. These results provide important insight to the thermal transport physics in graphene oxide and offer valuable information for the design of graphene oxide-based materials and devices. PMID:24468660

  5. Surface grafting of reduced graphene oxide using nanocrystalline cellulose via click reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kabiri, Roya; Namazi, Hassan

    2014-07-01

    Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheet was functionalized with nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) via click coupling between azide-functionalized graphene oxide (GO-N3) and terminal propargyl-functionalized nanocrystalline cellulose (PG-NCC). First, the reactive azide groups were introduced on the surface of GO with azidation of 2-chloroethyl isocyanate-treated graphene oxide (GO-Cl). Then, the resulted compounds were reacted with PG-NCC utilizing copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition. During the click reaction, GO was simultaneously reduced to graphene. The coupling was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared, Raman, DEPT135, and 13C NMR spectroscopy, and the complete exfoliation of graphene in the NCC matrix was confirmed with X-ray diffraction measurement. The degree of functionalization from the gradual mass loss of RGO-NCC suggests that around 23 mass % has been functionalized covalently. The size of both NCC and GO was found to be in nanometric range, which decreased after click reaction.

  6. A facile fabrication of chemically converted graphene oxide thin films and their uses as absorber materials for solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adelifard, Mehdi; Darudi, Hosein

    2016-07-01

    There is a great interest in the use of graphene sheets in thin film solar cells with low-cost and good-optoelectronic properties. Here, the production of absorbent conductive reduced graphene oxide (RGO) thin films was investigated. RGO thin films were prepared from spray-coated graphene oxide (GO) layers at various substrate temperature followed by a simple hydrazine-reducing method. The structural, morphological, optical, and electrical characterizations of graphene oxide (GO) and RGO thin films were investigated. X-ray diffraction analysis showed a phase shift from GO to RGO due to hydrazine treatment, in agreement with the FTIR spectra of the layers. FESEM images clearly exhibited continuous films resulting from the overlap of graphene nanosheets. The produced low-cost thin films had high absorption coefficient up to 1.0 × 105 cm-1, electrical resistance as low as 0.9 kΩ/sq, and effective optical band gap of about 1.50 eV, close to the optimum value for solar conversion. The conductive absorbent properties of the reduced graphene oxide thin films would be useful to develop photovoltaic cells.

  7. Iridescent cellulose nanocrystal/polyethylene oxide composite films with low coefficient of thermal expansion

    Treesearch

    Jairo A. Diaz; Julia L. Braun; Robert J. Moon; Jeffrey P. Youngblood

    2015-01-01

    Simultaneous control over optical and thermal properties is particularly challenging and highly desired in fields like organic electronics. Here we incorporated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) into polyethylene oxide (PEO) in an attempt to preserve the iridescent CNC optical reflection given by their chiral nematic organisation, while reducing the composite thermal...

  8. Mesoporous carbon-coated LiFePO4 nanocrystals co-modified with graphene and Mg2+ doping as superior cathode materials for lithium ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Wang, Bo; Xu, Binghui; Liu, Tiefeng; Liu, Peng; Guo, Chenfeng; Wang, Shuo; Wang, Qiuming; Xiong, Zhigang; Wang, Dianlong; Zhao, X S

    2014-01-21

    In this work, mesoporous carbon-coated LiFePO4 nanocrystals further co-modified with graphene and Mg(2+) doping (G/LFMP) were synthesized by a modified rheological phase method to improve the speed of lithium storage as well as cycling stability. The mesoporous structure of LiFePO4 nanocrystals was designed and realized by introducing the bead milling technique, which assisted in forming sucrose-pyrolytic carbon nanoparticles as the template for generating mesopores. For comparison purposes, samples modified only with graphene (G/LFP) or Mg(2+) doping (LFMP) as well as pure LiFePO4 (LFP) were also prepared and investigated. Microscopic observation and nitrogen sorption analysis have revealed the mesoporous morphologies of the as-prepared composites. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Rietveld refinement data demonstrated that the Mg-doped LiFePO4 is a single olivine-type phase and well crystallized with shortened Fe-O and P-O bonds and a lengthened Li-O bond, resulting in an enhanced Li(+) diffusion velocity. Electrochemical properties have also been investigated after assembling coin cells with the as-prepared composites as the cathode active materials. Remarkably, the G/LFMP composite has exhibited the best electrochemical properties, including fast lithium storage performance and excellent cycle stability. That is because the modification of graphene provided active sites for nuclei, restricted the in situ crystallite growth, increased the electronic conductivity and reduced the interface reaction current density, while, Mg(2+) doping improved the intrinsically electronic and ionic transfer properties of LFP crystals. Moreover, in the G/LFMP composite, the graphene component plays the role of "cushion" as it could quickly realize capacity response, buffering the impact to LFMP under the conditions of high-rate charging or discharging, which results in a pre-eminent rate capability and cycling stability.

  9. One-Pot Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide/Anatase Titanium Dioxide Composites for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue.

    PubMed

    Lee, Hyo In; Park, Soo-Jin

    2018-09-01

    In this work, highly ordered TiO2-reduced graphene oxide sheets (TGS) were successfully fabricated via a one-pot solvothermal method with different amounts of graphene oxide (0.01, 0.03, 0.05, and 0.07 g). This was achieved by reacting graphene oxide (GO) layers with titanium isopropoxide as the TiO2 precursor. The TGS exhibited superior efficiency compared to pristine TiO2 and the best results were recorded for the TGS-0.05 sample. The presence of the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) component was determined to be an important factor governing the separation of the photogenerated electron-hole pair via interfacial charge transfer. The significantly increased activity of the TGS under simulated solar light in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) indicates that these materials are promising photocatalysts for efficient water purification.

  10. Room-temperature processed films of colloidal carved rod-shaped nanocrystals of reduced tungsten oxide as interlayers for perovskite solar cells.

    PubMed

    Masi, Sofia; Mastria, Rosanna; Scarfiello, Riccardo; Carallo, Sonia; Nobile, Concetta; Gambino, Salvatore; Sibillano, Teresa; Giannini, Cinzia; Colella, Silvia; Listorti, Andrea; Cozzoli, P Davide; Rizzo, Aurora

    2018-04-25

    Thanks to their high stability, good optoelectronic and extraordinary electrochromic properties, tungsten oxides are among the most valuable yet underexploited materials for energy conversion applications. Herein, colloidal one-dimensional carved nanocrystals of reduced tungsten trioxide (WO3-x) are successfully integrated, for the first time, as a hole-transporting layer (HTL) into CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cells with a planar inverted device architecture. Importantly, the use of such preformed nanocrystals guarantees the facile solution-cast-only deposition of a homogeneous WO3-x thin film at room temperature, allowing achievement of the highest power conversion efficiency ever reported for perovskite solar cells incorporating raw and un-doped tungsten oxide based HTL.

  11. A rapid room temperature chemical route for the synthesis of graphene: metal-mediated reduction of graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Dey, Ramendra Sundar; Hajra, Saumen; Sahu, Ranjan K; Raj, C Retna; Panigrahi, M K

    2012-02-07

    A rapid and facile route for the synthesis of reduced graphene oxide sheets (rGOs) at room temperature by the chemical reduction of graphene oxide using Zn/acid in aqueous solution is demonstrated. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2012

  12. Surface oxidation of tin chalcogenide nanocrystals revealed by 119Sn-Mössbauer spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    de Kergommeaux, Antoine; Faure-Vincent, Jérôme; Pron, Adam; de Bettignies, Rémi; Malaman, Bernard; Reiss, Peter

    2012-07-18

    Narrow band gap tin(II) chalcogenide (SnS, SnSe, SnTe) nanocrystals are of high interest for optoelectronic applications such as thin film solar cells or photodetectors. However, charge transfer and charge transport processes strongly depend on nanocrystals' surface quality. Using (119)Sn-Mössbauer spectroscopy, which is the most sensitive tool for probing the Sn oxidation state, we show that SnS nanocrystals exhibit a Sn((IV))/Sn((II)) ratio of around 20:80 before and 40:60 after five minutes exposure to air. Regardless of the tin or sulfur precursors used, similar results are obtained using six different synthesis protocols. The Sn((IV)) content before air exposure arises from surface related SnS(2) and Sn(2)S(3) species as well as from surface Sn atoms bound to oleic acid ligands. The increase of the Sn((IV)) content upon air exposure results from surface oxidation. Full oxidation of the SnS nanocrystals without size change is achieved by annealing at 500 °C in air. With the goal to prevent surface oxidation, SnS nanocrystals are capped with a cadmium-phosphonate complex. A broad photoluminescence signal centered at 600 nm indicates successful capping, which however does not reduce the air sensitivity. Finally we demonstrate that SnSe nanocrystals exhibit a very similar behavior with a Sn((IV))/Sn((II)) ratio of 43:57 after air exposure. In the case of SnTe nanocrystals, the ratio of 55:45 is evidence of a more pronounced tendency for oxidation. These results demonstrate that prior to their use in optoelectronics further surface engineering of tin chalcogenide nanocrystals is required, which otherwise have to be stored and processed under inert atmosphere.

  13. Patterning and reduction of graphene oxide using femtosecond-laser irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kang, SeungYeon; Evans, Christopher C.; Shukla, Shobha; Reshef, Orad; Mazur, Eric

    2018-07-01

    Graphene has emerged as one of the most versatile materials ever discovered due to its extraordinary electronic, optical, thermal, and mechanical properties. However, device fabrication is a well-known challenge and requires novel fabrication methods to realize the complex integration of graphene-based devices. Here, we demonstrate direct laser writing of reduced graphene oxide using femtosecond-laser irradiation at λ = 795 nm. We perform a systematic study of the reduction process of graphene oxide to graphene by varying both the laser fluence and the pulse repetition rate. Our observations show that the reduction has both thermal and non-thermal features, and suggest that we can achieve better resolution and conductivity using kHz pulse trains than using MHz pulse trains or a continuous wave laser. Our reduced graphene oxide lines written at 10-kHz exhibit a 5 order-of-magnitude decrease in resistivity compared to a non-irradiated control sample. This study provides new insight into the reduction process of graphene oxide and opens doors to achieving a high degree of flexibility and control in the fabrication of graphene layers.

  14. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cho, Eun Seon; Ruminski, Anne M.; Aloni, Shaul

    Interest in hydrogen fuel is growing for automotive applications; however, safe, dense, solid-state hydrogen storage remains a formidable scientific challenge. Metal hydrides offer ample storage capacity and do not require cryogens or exceedingly high pressures for operation. However, hydrides have largely been abandoned because of oxidative instability and sluggish kinetics. We report a new, environmentally stable hydrogen storage material constructed of Mg nanocrystals encapsulated by atomically thin and gas-selective reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets. This material, protected from oxygen and moisture by the rGO layers, exhibits exceptionally dense hydrogen storage (6.5 wt% and 0.105 kg H 2 per litre inmore » the total composite). As rGO is atomically thin, this approach minimizes inactive mass in the composite, while also providing a kinetic enhancement to hydrogen sorption performance. In conclusion, these multilaminates of rGO-Mg are able to deliver exceptionally dense hydrogen storage and provide a material platform for harnessing the attributes of sensitive nanomaterials in demanding environments.« less

  15. A facile synthesis of reduced holey graphene oxide for supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Hu, Xinjun; Bai, Dongchen; Wu, Yiqi; Chen, Songbo; Ma, Yu; Lu, Yue; Chao, Yuanzhi; Bai, Yongxiao

    2017-12-12

    Hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) generated from a UV/O 3 solution reaction is used to efficiently etch graphene oxide nanosheets under moderate conditions. Reduced holey graphene oxide is directly used as a supercapacitor electrode material and exhibits high specific capacitance (224 F g -1 at a current density of 1 A g -1 ) and high volumetric capacitance (up to 206 F cm -3 ).

  16. Barium borate nanorod decorated reduced graphene oxide for optical power limiting applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muruganandi, G.; Saravanan, M.; Vinitha, G.; Jessie Raj, M. B.; Sabari Girisun, T. C.

    2018-01-01

    By simple hydrothermal method, nanorods of barium boate were successfully loaded on reduced graphene oxide sheets. Powder XRD confirms the incorporation of barium borate (2θ = 29°, (202)) along with the transition of graphene oxide (2θ = 12°, (001)) into reduced graphene oxide (2θ = 25°, (002)). In the FTIR spectra, presence of characteristic absorption peaks of rGO (1572 and 2928 cm-1) and barium borate (510, 760 and 856 cm-1) further evidences the formation of BBO:rGO nanocomposite. FESEM images potray the existence of graphene sheets as thin layers and growth of barium borate as nanorods on the sheets of reduced graphene oxide. Ground state absorption studies reveal the hypsochromic shift in the absorption maxima of the graphene layers due to reduction of graphene oxide and hypochromic shift in the absorbance intensity due to the inclusion of highly transparent barium bortae. The photoluminescence of BBO:rGO shows maximum emission in the UV region arising from the direct transitions involving the valence band and conduction band in the band gap region. Z-scan technique using CW diode pumped Nd:YAG laser (532 nm, 50 mW) exposes that both nanocomposite and individual counterpart possess saturable absorption and self-defocusing behavior. Third-order nonlinear optical coefficients of BBO:rGO nanocomposite is found to be higher than bare graphene oxide. In particular the nonlinear refractive index of nanocomposite is almost four times higher than GO which resulted in superior optical power limiting action. Strong nonlinear refraction (self-defocusing) and lower onset limiting thershold makes the BBO:rGO nanocomposite preferable candidate for laser safety devices.

  17. Microbial reduction of graphene oxide by Escherichia coli: a green chemistry approach.

    PubMed

    Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi; Han, Jae Woong; Eppakayala, Vasuki; Kim, Jin-Hoi

    2013-02-01

    Graphene and graphene related materials are an important area of research in recent years due to their unique properties. The extensive industrial application of graphene and related compounds has led researchers to devise novel and simple methods for the synthesis of high quality graphene. In this paper, we developed an environment friendly, cost effective, simple method and green approaches for the reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using Escherichia coli biomass. In biological method, we can avoid use of toxic and environmentally harmful reducing agents commonly used in the chemical reduction of GO to obtain graphene. The biomass of E. coli reduces exfoliated GO to graphene at 37°C in an aqueous medium. The E. coli reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) was characterized with UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, particle analyzer, high resolution X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Besides the reduction potential, the biomass could also play an important role as stabilizing agent, in which synthesized graphene exhibited good stability in water. This method can open up the new avenue for preparing graphene in cost effective and large scale production. Our findings suggest that GO can be reduced by simple eco-friendly method by using E. coli biomass to produce water dispersible graphene. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Polyethyleneglycol/silver functionalized reduced graphene oxide aerogel for environmental application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumari, G. Vanitha; Asha, S.; Ananth, A. Nimrodh; Rajan, M. A. Jothi; Mathavan, T.

    2018-04-01

    Polyethylene glycol (PEG)/Silver (Ag) functionalized reduced graphene oxide aerogel (RGOA) was synthesized. PEG/Ag decorated reduced graphene oxide aerogel was characterized using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The surface morphology of PEG/Ag/RGOA was analyzed using scanning electron microscope. The non-covalent interaction between reduced graphene oxide layers and the interaction between PEG and Ag on RGOA were studied by FT-IR spectra. It was observed that the interaction between Ag and PEG could enhance the properties of RGOA. Methyl Orange (MO) dye degradation was observed from UV-Vis Spectra. The process was studied by monitoring the simultaneous decrease in the height of UV-Vis absorption peak of dye solution. The results show that PEG/RGOA and PEG/Ag/RGOA are an efficient catalyst for dye degradation.

  19. Single-step solvothermal synthesis of mesoporous Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity.

    PubMed

    Sher Shah, Md Selim Arif; Zhang, Kan; Park, A Reum; Kim, Kwang Su; Park, Nam-Gyu; Park, Jong Hyeok; Yoo, Pil J

    2013-06-07

    With growing interest in the photocatalytic performance of TiO2-graphene composite systems, the ternary phase of TiO2, graphene, and Ag is expected to exhibit improved photocatalytic characteristics because of the improved recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers and potential contribution of the generation of localized surface plasmon resonance at Ag sites on a surface of the TiO2-graphene binary matrix. In this work, Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by a simple solvothermal process. In a single-step synthetic procedure, the reduction of AgNO3 and graphene oxide and the hydrolysis of titanium tetraisopropoxide were spontaneously performed in a mixed solvent system of ethylene glycol, N,N-dimethylformamide and a stoichiometric amount of water without resorting to the use of typical reducing agents. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, along with different microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, enabling us to confirm the successful reduction of AgNO3 and graphite oxide to metallic Ag and reduced graphene oxide, respectively. Due to the highly facilitated electron transport of well distributed Ag nanoparticles, the synthesized ternary nanocomposite showed enhanced photocatalytic activity for degradation of rhodamine B dye under visible light irradiation.

  20. Ambient water and visible-light irradiation drive changes in graphene morphology, structure, surface chemistry, aggregation, and toxicity.

    PubMed

    Hu, Xiangang; Zhou, Ming; Zhou, Qixing

    2015-03-17

    The environmental behaviors and risks associated with graphene have attracted considerable attention. However, the fundamental effects of ambient water and visible-light irradiation on the properties and toxicity of graphene remain unknown. This work revealed that hydration and irradiation result in the transformation of large-sheet graphene to long-ribbon graphene. The thickness of the treated graphene decreased, and oxides were formed through the generation of singlet oxygen. In addition, hydration and irradiation resulted in greater disorder in the graphene structure and in the expansion of the d-spacing of the structure due to the introduction of water molecules and modifications of the functional groups. Oxidative modifications with two-stage (fast and low) kinetics enhanced the number of negative surface charges on the graphene and enhanced graphene aggregation. The above property alterations reduced the nanotoxicity of graphene to algal cells by reducing the generation of reactive oxygen species, diminishing protein carbonylation and decreasing tail DNA. A comparative study using graphene oxide suggested that oxidative modifications could play an important role in inhibiting toxicological activity. This study provides a preliminary approach for understanding the environmental behaviors of graphene and avoids overestimating the risks of graphene in the natural environment.

  1. Sorptive Activity and Hydrophobic Behavior of Aerogels Based on Reduced Graphene Oxide and Carbon Nanotubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sultanov, F.; Bakbolat, B.; Daulbaev, Ch.; Urazgalieva, A.; Azizov, Z.; Mansurov, Z.; Tulepov, M.; Pei, S. S.

    2017-07-01

    A study has been made of the possibility of obtaining three-dimensional porous aerogel structures based on reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes. Carbon nanotubes in the structure of the finished aerogel based on reduced graphene oxide were grown by thermal decomposition of ferrocene into cyclopentadienyl and iron ions which served as the source of carbon and a catalyst respectively. The obtained composite aerogels exhibit high sorptive activity for organic liquids of different densities.

  2. Flexible and integrated supercapacitor with tunable energy storage.

    PubMed

    Shao, Changxiang; Xu, Tong; Gao, Jian; Liang, Yuan; Zhao, Yang; Qu, Liangti

    2017-08-31

    A flexible integrated supercapacitor based on three dimensional reduced graphene oxide/graphene oxide/reduced graphene oxide (RGO-GO-RGO) foam has been fabricated via a laser direct writing strategy. The supercapacitor with outstanding mechanical properties shows a high capacitance performance which can be easily regulated by controlling the compressive state of the electrodes. This work provides a new platform for potential applications in the next-generation intelligent power supply of electronics.

  3. Synthesis of adenine-modified reduced graphene oxide nanosheets.

    PubMed

    Cao, Huaqiang; Wu, Xiaoming; Yin, Gui; Warner, Jamie H

    2012-03-05

    We report here a facile strategy to synthesize the nanocomposite of adenine-modified reduced graphene oxide (AMG) via reaction between adenine and GOCl which is generated from SOCl(2) reacted with graphite oxide (GO). The as-synthesized AMG was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and galvanostatic discharge analysis. The AMG owns about one adenine group per 53 carbon atoms on a graphene sheet, which improves electronic conductivity compared with reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The AMG displays enhanced supercapacitor performance compared with RGO accompanying good stability and good cycling behavior in the supercapacitor.

  4. Preparation Characterization and Electrical Study of New Polymeric Mixture (Consist of Three Polymers) Nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    AL-Abodi, Entisar E.; Farouk, Azhar

    2018-05-01

    By using hummers’ method, graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized and by reducing it gave reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The polymeric blend contain three polymers; Poly Aniline (PANI), Poly Vinyl Acetate( PVAc),and Pecten(Pc) wich have been prepared at studied amount. The composites for above polymers with various concentrations of, graphene oxide (GO) and with reduced graphene oxide (RGO)were prepared, and than pour into films(chips). The dielectric constant properties of chips were measured, which its point the electrical conductivity values for the prepared chips increase with increasing of frequency. As well, the electrical conductivity is research in terms of the Arrhenius plot, it is plotted against the reverse temperature for the prepared films at different applied frequencies.

  5. Reduced Graphene Oxides: Influence of the Reduction Method on the Electrocatalytic Effect towards Nucleic Acid Oxidation

    PubMed Central

    Báez, Daniela F.; Pardo, Helena; Laborda, Ignacio; Marco, José F.; Yáñez, Claudia; Bollo, Soledad

    2017-01-01

    For the first time a critical analysis of the influence that four different graphene oxide reduction methods have on the electrochemical properties of the resulting reduced graphene oxides (RGOs) is reported. Starting from the same graphene oxide, chemical (CRGO), hydrothermal (hTRGO), electrochemical (ERGO), and thermal (TRGO) reduced graphene oxide were produced. The materials were fully characterized and the topography and electroactivity of the resulting glassy carbon modified electrodes were also evaluated. An oligonucleotide molecule was used as a model of DNA electrochemical biosensing. The results allow for the conclusion that TRGO produced the RGOs with the best electrochemical performance for oligonucleotide electroanalysis. A clear shift in the guanine oxidation peak potential to lower values (~0.100 V) and an almost two-fold increase in the current intensity were observed compared with the other RGOs. The electrocatalytic effect has a multifactorial explanation because the TRGO was the material that presented a higher polydispersity and lower sheet size, thus exposing a larger quantity of defects to the electrode surface, which produces larger physical and electrochemical areas. PMID:28677654

  6. Reduced graphene oxide wrapped Ag nanostructures for enhanced SERS activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nair, Anju K.; Kala, M. S.; Thomas, Sabu; Kalarikkal, Nandakumar

    2018-04-01

    Graphene - metal nanoparticle hybrids have received great attention due to their unique electronic properties, large specific surface area, very high conductivity and more charge transfer. Thus, it is extremely advantages to develop a simple and efficient process to disperse metal nanostructures over the surface of graphene sheets. Herein, we report a hydrothermal assisted strategy for developing reduced graphene oxide /Ag nanomorphotypes (cube, wire) for surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) applications, considering the advantages of synergistic effect of graphene and plasmonic properties of Ag nanomorphotypes.

  7. Enhanced Mechanical Properties of Graphene (Reduced Graphene Oxide)/Aluminum Composites with a Bioinspired Nanolaminated Structure.

    PubMed

    Li, Zan; Guo, Qiang; Li, Zhiqiang; Fan, Genlian; Xiong, Ding-Bang; Su, Yishi; Zhang, Jie; Zhang, Di

    2015-12-09

    Bulk graphene (reduced graphene oxide)-reinforced Al matrix composites with a bioinspired nanolaminated microstructure were fabricated via a composite powder assembly approach. Compared with the unreinforced Al matrix, these composites were shown to possess significantly improved stiffness and tensile strength, and a similar or even slightly higher total elongation. These observations were interpreted by the facilitated load transfer between graphene and the Al matrix, and the extrinsic toughening effect as a result of the nanolaminated microstructure.

  8. Distance dependence of the energy transfer rate from a single semiconductor nanostructure to graphene.

    PubMed

    Federspiel, François; Froehlicher, Guillaume; Nasilowski, Michel; Pedetti, Silvia; Mahmood, Ather; Doudin, Bernard; Park, Serin; Lee, Jeong-O; Halley, David; Dubertret, Benoît; Gilliot, Pierre; Berciaud, Stéphane

    2015-02-11

    The near-field Coulomb interaction between a nanoemitter and a graphene monolayer results in strong Förster-type resonant energy transfer and subsequent fluorescence quenching. Here, we investigate the distance dependence of the energy transfer rate from individual, (i) zero-dimensional CdSe/CdS nanocrystals and (ii) two-dimensional CdSe/CdS/ZnS nanoplatelets to a graphene monolayer. For increasing distances d, the energy transfer rate from individual nanocrystals to graphene decays as 1/d(4). In contrast, the distance dependence of the energy transfer rate from a two-dimensional nanoplatelet to graphene deviates from a simple power law but is well described by a theoretical model, which considers a thermal distribution of free excitons in a two-dimensional quantum well. Our results show that accurate distance measurements can be performed at the single particle level using graphene-based molecular rulers and that energy transfer allows probing dimensionality effects at the nanoscale.

  9. Oxidative stress-mediated antibacterial activity of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

    PubMed

    Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi; Han, Jae Woong; Dayem, Ahmed Abdal; Eppakayala, Vasuki; Kim, Jin-Hoi

    2012-01-01

    Graphene holds great promise for potential use in next-generation electronic and photonic devices due to its unique high carrier mobility, good optical transparency, large surface area, and biocompatibility. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial effects of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this work, we used a novel reducing agent, betamercaptoethanol (BME), for synthesis of graphene to avoid the use of toxic materials. To uncover the impacts of GO and rGO on human health, the antibacterial activity of two types of graphene-based material toward a bacterial model P. aeruginosa was studied and compared. The synthesized GO and rGO was characterized by ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, particle-size analyzer, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Further, to explain the antimicrobial activity of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, we employed various assays, such as cell growth, cell viability, reactive oxygen species generation, and DNA fragmentation. Ultraviolet-visible spectra of the samples confirmed the transition of GO into graphene. Dynamic light-scattering analyses showed the average size among the two types of graphene materials. X-ray diffraction data validated the structure of graphene sheets, and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the morphologies of prepared graphene. Raman spectroscopy data indicated the removal of oxygen-containing functional groups from the surface of GO and the formation of graphene. The exposure of cells to GO and rGO induced the production of superoxide radical anion and loss of cell viability. Results suggest that the antibacterial activities are contributed to by loss of cell viability, induced oxidative stress, and DNA fragmentation. The antibacterial activities of GO and rGO against P. aeruginosa were compared. The loss of P. aeruginosa viability increased in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Exposure to GO and rGO induced significant production of superoxide radical anion compared to control. GO and rGO showed dose-dependent antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa cells through the generation of reactive oxygen species, leading to cell death, which was further confirmed through resulting nuclear fragmentation. The data presented here are novel in that they prove that GO and rGO are effective bactericidal agents against P. aeruginosa, which would be used as a future antibacterial agent.

  10. Oxidative stress-mediated antibacterial activity of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

    PubMed Central

    Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi; Han, Jae Woong; Dayem, Ahmed Abdal; Eppakayala, Vasuki; Kim, Jin-Hoi

    2012-01-01

    Background Graphene holds great promise for potential use in next-generation electronic and photonic devices due to its unique high carrier mobility, good optical transparency, large surface area, and biocompatibility. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial effects of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this work, we used a novel reducing agent, betamercaptoethanol (BME), for synthesis of graphene to avoid the use of toxic materials. To uncover the impacts of GO and rGO on human health, the antibacterial activity of two types of graphene-based material toward a bacterial model P. aeruginosa was studied and compared. Methods The synthesized GO and rGO was characterized by ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, particle-size analyzer, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Further, to explain the antimicrobial activity of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, we employed various assays, such as cell growth, cell viability, reactive oxygen species generation, and DNA fragmentation. Results Ultraviolet-visible spectra of the samples confirmed the transition of GO into graphene. Dynamic light-scattering analyses showed the average size among the two types of graphene materials. X-ray diffraction data validated the structure of graphene sheets, and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the morphologies of prepared graphene. Raman spectroscopy data indicated the removal of oxygen-containing functional groups from the surface of GO and the formation of graphene. The exposure of cells to GO and rGO induced the production of superoxide radical anion and loss of cell viability. Results suggest that the antibacterial activities are contributed to by loss of cell viability, induced oxidative stress, and DNA fragmentation. Conclusion The antibacterial activities of GO and rGO against P. aeruginosa were compared. The loss of P. aeruginosa viability increased in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Exposure to GO and rGO induced significant production of superoxide radical anion compared to control. GO and rGO showed dose-dependent antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa cells through the generation of reactive oxygen species, leading to cell death, which was further confirmed through resulting nuclear fragmentation. The data presented here are novel in that they prove that GO and rGO are effective bactericidal agents against P. aeruginosa, which would be used as a future antibacterial agent. PMID:23226696

  11. Experimental observation of ballistic nanofriction on graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Blue, Brandon; Lodge, Michael; Tang, Chun; Hubbard, William; Martini, Ashlie; Dawson, Ben; Ishigami, Masa

    Recent calculations have predicted that gold nanocrystals slide on graphite with two radically different friction coefficients depending on their speeds. At high sliding speeds in the range of 100?m/s, nanocrystals are expected to behave radically differently in what is known as the ballistic nanofriction regime. In this work, we present a direct measurement of ballistic nanofriction for gold nanocrystals on graphene. Nanocrystals are deposited onto an oscillating graphene-coated quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) in-situ under UHV and allowed to periodically ring down. After deposition, frictional parameters are measured as a function of oscillatory velocity to investigate the predicted velocity dependence of friction. Lubricity beyond even the predictions of ballistic nanofriction is observed at much lower surface velocities than expected, with drag coefficients approaching 8.65*10-14 kg/s. In comparison to the theoretically-predicted value of 2.0*10-13 kg/s, our results suggest a much lower interaction strength than proposed in contemporary models of nanoscopic sliding contacts even at relatively low speeds. This work is based on research supported by the National Science Foundation, Grant No. 0955625 (MLS, BTB, BDD and MI) and Grant No. CMMI-1265594 (CT and AM). BDD and MI were also supported by the Intelligence Community Postdoctoral Fellowship.

  12. In situ enhancement of the blue photoluminescence of colloidal Ga2O3 nanocrystals by promotion of defect formation in reducing conditions.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ting; Radovanovic, Pavle V

    2011-07-07

    We demonstrate redox control of defect-based photoluminescence efficiency of colloidal γ-Ga(2)O(3) nanocrystals. Reducing environment leads to an increase in photoluminescence intensity by enhancing the concentration of oxygen vacancies, while the blue emission is suppressed in oxidative conditions. These results enable optimization of nanocrystal properties by in situ defect manipulation. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

  13. Enhanced and selective ammonia sensing of reduced graphene oxide based chemo resistive sensor at room temperature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Ramesh; Kaur, Amarjeet

    2016-05-01

    The reduced graphene oxide thin films were fabricated by using the spin coating method. The reduced graphene oxide samples were characterised by Raman studies to obtain corresponding D and G bands at 1360 and 1590 cm-1 respectively. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectra consists of peak corresponds to sp2 hybridisation of carbon atoms at 1560 cm-1. The reduced graphene oxide based chemoresistive sensor exhibited a p-type semiconductor behaviour in ambient conditions and showed good sensitivity to different concentration of ammonia from 25 ppm to 500 ppm and excellent selectivity at room temperature. The sensor displays selectivity to several hazardous vapours such as methanol, ethanol, acetone and hydrazine hydrate. The sensor demonstrated a sensitivity of 9.8 at 25 ppm concentration of ammonia with response time of 163 seconds.

  14. Integration of conductive reduced graphene oxide into microstructured optical fibres for optoelectronics applications.

    PubMed

    Ruan, Yinlan; Ding, Liyun; Duan, Jingjing; Ebendorff-Heidepriem, Heike; Monro, Tanya M

    2016-02-22

    Integration of conductive materials into optical fibres can largely expand functions of fibre devices including surface plasmon resonator/metamaterial, modulators/detectors, or biosensors. Some early attempts have been made to incorporate metals such as tin into fibres during the fibre drawing process. Due to the restricted range of materials that have compatible melting temperatures with that of silica glass, the methods to incorporate metals along the length of the fibres are very challenging. Moreover, metals are nontransparent with strong light absorption, which causes high fibre loss. This article demonstrates a novel but simple method for creating transparent conductive reduced graphene oxide film onto microstructured silica fibres for potential optoelectronic applications. The strongly confined evanescent field of the suspended core fibres with only 2 μW average power was creatively used to transform graphene oxide into reduced graphene oxide with negligible additional loss. Existence of reduced graphene oxide was confirmed by their characteristic Raman signals, shifting of their fluorescence peaks as well as largely decreased resistance of the bulk GO film after laser beam exposure.

  15. Chemically-modified graphenes for oxidation of DNA bases: analytical parameters.

    PubMed

    Goh, Madeline Shuhua; Bonanni, Alessandra; Ambrosi, Adriano; Sofer, Zdeněk; Pumera, Martin

    2011-11-21

    We studied the electroanalytical performances of chemically-modified graphenes (CMGs) containing different defect densities and amounts of oxygen-containing groups, namely graphite oxide (GPO), graphene oxide (GO), thermally reduced graphene oxide (TR-GO) and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ER-GO) by comparing the sensitivity, selectivity, linearity and repeatability towards the oxidation of DNA bases. We have observed that for differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) detection of adenine and cytosine, all CMGs showed enhanced sensitivity to oxidation, while for guanine and thymine, ER-GO and TR-GO exhibited much improved sensitivity over bare glassy carbon (GC) as well as over GPO and GO. There is also significant selectivity enhancement when using GPO for adenine and TR-GO for thymine. Our results have uncovered that the differences in surface functionalities, structure and defects of various CMGs largely influence their electrochemical behaviour in detecting the oxidation of DNA bases. The findings in this report will provide a useful guide for the future development of label-free electrochemical devices for DNA analysis.

  16. Coupled molybdenum carbide and reduced graphene oxide electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution.

    PubMed

    Li, Ji-Sen; Wang, Yu; Liu, Chun-Hui; Li, Shun-Li; Wang, Yu-Guang; Dong, Long-Zhang; Dai, Zhi-Hui; Li, Ya-Fei; Lan, Ya-Qian

    2016-04-01

    Electrochemical water splitting is one of the most economical and sustainable methods for large-scale hydrogen production. However, the development of low-cost and earth-abundant non-noble-metal catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction remains a challenge. Here we report a two-dimensional coupled hybrid of molybdenum carbide and reduced graphene oxide with a ternary polyoxometalate-polypyrrole/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite as a precursor. The hybrid exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction and excellent stability in acidic media, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the best among these reported non-noble-metal catalysts. Theoretical calculations on the basis of density functional theory reveal that the active sites for hydrogen evolution stem from the pyridinic nitrogens, as well as the carbon atoms, in the graphene. In a proof-of-concept trial, an electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution is fabricated, which may open new avenues for the design of nanomaterials utilizing POMs/conducting polymer/reduced-graphene oxide nanocomposites.

  17. Coupled molybdenum carbide and reduced graphene oxide electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Ji-Sen; Wang, Yu; Liu, Chun-Hui; Li, Shun-Li; Wang, Yu-Guang; Dong, Long-Zhang; Dai, Zhi-Hui; Li, Ya-Fei; Lan, Ya-Qian

    2016-04-01

    Electrochemical water splitting is one of the most economical and sustainable methods for large-scale hydrogen production. However, the development of low-cost and earth-abundant non-noble-metal catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction remains a challenge. Here we report a two-dimensional coupled hybrid of molybdenum carbide and reduced graphene oxide with a ternary polyoxometalate-polypyrrole/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite as a precursor. The hybrid exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction and excellent stability in acidic media, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the best among these reported non-noble-metal catalysts. Theoretical calculations on the basis of density functional theory reveal that the active sites for hydrogen evolution stem from the pyridinic nitrogens, as well as the carbon atoms, in the graphene. In a proof-of-concept trial, an electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution is fabricated, which may open new avenues for the design of nanomaterials utilizing POMs/conducting polymer/reduced-graphene oxide nanocomposites.

  18. Facile electrodeposition of reduced graphene oxide hydrogels for high-performance supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pham, Viet Hung; Gebre, Tesfaye; Dickerson, James H.

    2015-03-01

    We report both a facile, scalable method to prepare reduced graphene oxide hydrogels through the electrodeposition of graphene oxide and its use as an electrode for high-performance supercapacitors. Such systems exhibited specific capacitances of 147 and 223 F g-1 at a current density of 10 A g-1 when using H2SO4 and H2SO4 + hydroquinone redox electrolytes, respectively.We report both a facile, scalable method to prepare reduced graphene oxide hydrogels through the electrodeposition of graphene oxide and its use as an electrode for high-performance supercapacitors. Such systems exhibited specific capacitances of 147 and 223 F g-1 at a current density of 10 A g-1 when using H2SO4 and H2SO4 + hydroquinone redox electrolytes, respectively. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: GO synthesis, characterization, fabrication of ERGO supercapacitor and electrochemical measurement, elemental composition, TGA and XRD of GO and ERGO. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr07508k

  19. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ruth, Anthony; Hayashi, Michitoshi; Zapol, Peter

    Fluorescence intermittency or blinking is observed in nearly all nanoscale fluorophores. It is characterized by universal power-law distributions in on- and off-times as well as 1/f behaviour in corresponding emission power spectral densities. Blinking, previously seen in confined zero- and one-dimensional systems has recently been documented in two-dimensional reduced graphene oxide. Here we show that unexpected blinking during graphene oxide-to-reduced graphene oxide photoreduction is attributed, in large part, to the redistribution of carbon sp 2 domains. This reclustering generates fluctuations in the number/size of emissive graphenic nanoclusters wherein multiscale modelling captures essential experimental aspects of reduced graphene oxide’s absorption/emission trajectories,more » while simultaneously connecting them to the underlying photochemistry responsible for graphene oxide’s reduction. These simulations thus establish causality between currently unexplained, long timescale emission intermittency in a quantum mechanical fluorophore and identifiable chemical reactions that ultimately lead to switching between on and off states.« less

  20. Photocatalytic and electrochemical performance of three-Dimensional reduced graphene Oxide/WS2/Mg-doped ZnO composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Weiwei; Chen, Xi'an; Mei, Wei; Chen, Chuansheng; Tsang, Yuenhong

    2017-04-01

    To improve the dispersion of reduced graphene oxide and enhance the photocatalytic property of reduced graphene oxide/Mg-doped ZnO composites (rGMZ), the reduced graphene oxide/WS2/Mg-doped ZnO composites (rGWMZ) were prepared by electrostatic self-assembly and coprecipitation methods. The effects of mass ratio of WS2 nanosheets to reduced graphene oxide (WS2/rGO wt.%) and calcination temperature on the photocatalytic and electrochemical property of rGWMZ composites were investigated. Experimental results showed that the photocatalytic efficiency of rGWMZ composites is three-fold compared with that of rGMZ composites when the WS2/rGO wt.% is 20.8% and calcination temperature is 500 °C, in which the degradation ratio Rhodamin B (RhB) can reach 95% within 15 min under the UV light and 90% within 90 min under simulated solar light. In addition, the rGWMZ show larger capacitance and smaller resistance than rGMZ. The enhancement for photocatalytic activity and electrochemical performance of rGWMZ is ascribed to improving the specific surface area, electrical conductivity and electronic storage capability because of the synergistic effect of rGO and WS2 nanosheets.

  1. Elaboration of nano titania-magnetic reduced graphene oxide for degradation of tartrazine dye in aqueous solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nada, Amr A.; Tantawy, Hesham R.; Elsayed, Mohamed A.; Bechelany, Mikhael; Elmowafy, Mohamed E.

    2018-04-01

    In this paper, magnetic nanocomposites are synthesized by loading reduced graphene oxide (RG) with two components of nanoparticles consisting of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and magnetite (Fe3O4) with varying amounts. The structural and magnetic features of the prepared composite photocatalysts were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-vis/DRS), Raman and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The resulting TiO2/magnetite reduced graphene oxide (MRGT) composite demonstrated intrinsic visible light photocatalytic activity, on degradation of tartrazine (TZ) dye from a synthetic aqueous solution. Specifically, it exhibits higher photocatalytic activity than magnetite reduced graphene oxide (MRG) and TiO2 nanoparticles. The photocatalytic degradation of TZ dye when using MRG and TiO2 for 3 h under visible light was 35% and 10% respectively, whereas for MRGT it was more than 95%. The higher photocatalytic efficiency of MRGT is due to the existence of reduced graphene oxide and magnetite which enhances the photocatalytic efficiency of the composite in visible light towards the degradation of harmful soluble azo dye (tartrazine).

  2. Graphene enhanced field emission from InP nanocrystals.

    PubMed

    Iemmo, L; Di Bartolomeo, A; Giubileo, F; Luongo, G; Passacantando, M; Niu, G; Hatami, F; Skibitzki, O; Schroeder, T

    2017-12-08

    We report the observation of field emission (FE) from InP nanocrystals (NCs) epitaxially grown on an array of p-Si nanotips. We prove that FE can be enhanced by covering the InP NCs with graphene. The measurements are performed inside a scanning electron microscope chamber with a nano-controlled W-thread used as an anode. We analyze the FE by Fowler-Nordheim theory and find that the field enhancement factor increases monotonically with the spacing between the anode and the cathode. We also show that InP/p-Si junction has a rectifying behavior, while graphene on InP creates an ohmic contact. Understanding the fundamentals of such nanojunctions is key for applications in nanoelectronics.

  3. Graphene enhanced field emission from InP nanocrystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iemmo, L.; Di Bartolomeo, A.; Giubileo, F.; Luongo, G.; Passacantando, M.; Niu, G.; Hatami, F.; Skibitzki, O.; Schroeder, T.

    2017-12-01

    We report the observation of field emission (FE) from InP nanocrystals (NCs) epitaxially grown on an array of p-Si nanotips. We prove that FE can be enhanced by covering the InP NCs with graphene. The measurements are performed inside a scanning electron microscope chamber with a nano-controlled W-thread used as an anode. We analyze the FE by Fowler-Nordheim theory and find that the field enhancement factor increases monotonically with the spacing between the anode and the cathode. We also show that InP/p-Si junction has a rectifying behavior, while graphene on InP creates an ohmic contact. Understanding the fundamentals of such nanojunctions is key for applications in nanoelectronics.

  4. Comparison of reduction products from graphite oxide and graphene oxide for anode applications in lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Sun, Yige; Tang, Jie; Zhang, Kun; Yuan, Jinshi; Li, Jing; Zhu, Da-Ming; Ozawa, Kiyoshi; Qin, Lu-Chang

    2017-02-16

    Hydrazine-reduced graphite oxide and graphene oxide were synthesized to compare their performances as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries. Reduced graphite oxide inherits the layer structure of graphite, with an average spacing between neighboring layers (d-spacing) of 0.374 nm; this exceeds the d-spacing of graphite (0.335 nm). The larger d-spacing provides wider channels for transporting lithium ions and sodium ions in the material. We showed that reduced graphite oxide as an anode in lithium-ion batteries can reach a specific capacity of 917 mA h g -1 , which is about three times of 372 mA h g -1 , the value expected for the LiC 6 structures on the electrode. This increase is consistent with the wider d-spacing, which enhances lithium intercalation and de-intercalation on the electrodes. The electrochemical performance of the lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries with reduced graphite oxide anodes show a noticeable improvement compared to those with reduced graphene oxide anodes. This improvement indicates that reduced graphite oxide, with larger interlayer spacing, has fewer defects and is thus more stable. In summary, we found that reduced graphite oxide may be a more favorable form of graphene for the fabrication of electrodes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries and other energy storage devices.

  5. A high-performance flexible fibre-shaped electrochemical capacitor based on electrochemically reduced graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Li, Yingru; Sheng, Kaixuan; Yuan, Wenjing; Shi, Gaoquan

    2013-01-11

    A fibre-shaped solid electrochemical capacitor based on electrochemically reduced graphene oxide has been fabricated, exhibiting high specific capacitance and rate capability, long cycling life and attractive flexibility.

  6. Single-step solvothermal synthesis of mesoporous Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arif Sher Shah, Md. Selim; Zhang, Kan; Park, A. Reum; Kim, Kwang Su; Park, Nam-Gyu; Park, Jong Hyeok; Yoo, Pil J.

    2013-05-01

    With growing interest in the photocatalytic performance of TiO2-graphene composite systems, the ternary phase of TiO2, graphene, and Ag is expected to exhibit improved photocatalytic characteristics because of the improved recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers and potential contribution of the generation of localized surface plasmon resonance at Ag sites on a surface of the TiO2-graphene binary matrix. In this work, Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by a simple solvothermal process. In a single-step synthetic procedure, the reduction of AgNO3 and graphene oxide and the hydrolysis of titanium tetraisopropoxide were spontaneously performed in a mixed solvent system of ethylene glycol, N,N-dimethylformamide and a stoichiometric amount of water without resorting to the use of typical reducing agents. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, along with different microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, enabling us to confirm the successful reduction of AgNO3 and graphite oxide to metallic Ag and reduced graphene oxide, respectively. Due to the highly facilitated electron transport of well distributed Ag nanoparticles, the synthesized ternary nanocomposite showed enhanced photocatalytic activity for degradation of rhodamine B dye under visible light irradiation.With growing interest in the photocatalytic performance of TiO2-graphene composite systems, the ternary phase of TiO2, graphene, and Ag is expected to exhibit improved photocatalytic characteristics because of the improved recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers and potential contribution of the generation of localized surface plasmon resonance at Ag sites on a surface of the TiO2-graphene binary matrix. In this work, Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by a simple solvothermal process. In a single-step synthetic procedure, the reduction of AgNO3 and graphene oxide and the hydrolysis of titanium tetraisopropoxide were spontaneously performed in a mixed solvent system of ethylene glycol, N,N-dimethylformamide and a stoichiometric amount of water without resorting to the use of typical reducing agents. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, along with different microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, enabling us to confirm the successful reduction of AgNO3 and graphite oxide to metallic Ag and reduced graphene oxide, respectively. Due to the highly facilitated electron transport of well distributed Ag nanoparticles, the synthesized ternary nanocomposite showed enhanced photocatalytic activity for degradation of rhodamine B dye under visible light irradiation. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: XRD of GO, EDX analysis of AgTG composites, tables show the size of graphitic domains and peak area analysis, dye adsorption plot, UV-visible absorption spectra of dye at different times, and plots of ln(Ct/C0) vs. time with the corresponding fitting curves of different samples. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr00579h

  7. Reduced graphene oxide as photocatalyst for CO2 reduction reaction(Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chang, Yu-Chung

    2016-10-01

    Photocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to hydrocarbons such as methanol makes possible simultaneous solar energy harvesting and CO2 reduction. Our previous work is using graphene oxide (GO) as a promising photocatalyst for photocatalytic conversion of CO2 to methanol[1].When using graphene oxide as photocatalyst, the photocatalytic efficiency is 4-flod higher than TiO2 powder. GO has a lot of defects on the surface and those defects make sp2 carbon structure become sp3 carbon structure. The carbon structure change cause the GO has large energy gap about 2.7 eV to 3.2 eV. In order to remove the defect and reduce the energy gap of GO, Zhao et al. try to annealing GO powder in the nitrogen atmosphere at 900oC, the GO structure can be reduced to near graphene structure[2]. Zhu et al. do some low temperature annealing, it can control the structure and energy bandgap of GO by control annealing temperature. If the annealing temperature increase the bandgap of GO will be reduce[3]. So, we can using this annealing process to reduce the bandgap of the GO. In the varying temperature thermal reduction process, as the temperature increases from 130oC to 170oC, the functional groups of the graphene oxide will be reduced and band gap of graphene oxide will be narrowed at same time. The characteristic of thermal reduced graphene oxide were analyzed by SEM, XRD and Raman measurements. The band position was determined by UV/Vis. The reduction of functional groups correlates to red shift in light absorption and eventual quenching in the PL signal of RGOs. Combining hydrophobicity, light harvesting and PL quench, we get the highest yield of RGO150 (0.31 μmole g-1 -cat hr-1) is 1.7-fold higher than that of GO (0.18μmole g-1 -cat hr-1). This work investigates a modified method for using a thermal reduction process to reduce the energy gap of graphene oxide.

  8. Facile synthesis of reduced graphene oxide/peroxomolybdate(VI)-citrate composite and its potential energy storage application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ciszewski, Mateusz; Benke, Grzegorz; Leszczyńska-Sejda, Katarzyna; Kopyto, Dorota

    2017-11-01

    A new energy storage material based on molybdate active species has been presented. Molybdenum seems to be a perspective material in supercapacitors because of numerous possible metal oxidation states, electrolyte storage by means of various chemical reactions and availability in comparison to other refractory metals. Material synthesized within this research was composed of reduced graphene oxide matrix and peroxomolybdate(VI)-citrate active dimers. It was showed that peroxomolybdate(VI)-citrate structure enhanced electrochemical activity of symmetric supercapacitor. Simple methodology was used to synthesize a composite with pH adjustment as the key step. The specific capacity calculated from galvanostatic charge/discharge curves was as high as 250 F/g. Material was distinguished by good cyclability with 5% capacity loss after 1000 cycles. The increase in charge transfer resistance, induced by metal-oxygen compound within the carbon matrix was relatively low, compared to parent reduced graphene oxide. Amorphous structure of peroxomolybdate(VI)-modified material was observed with slight increase in the interlayer distance in comparison to parent reduced graphene oxide. The height and lateral size of crystallites were also determined. Significant decrease in the specific surface area of peroxomolybdate(VI)-modified composite was observed, in comparison to the parent reduced graphene oxide.

  9. A photoelectrochemical (PEC) study on graphene oxide based hematite thin films heterojunction (R-GO/Fe2O3)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Poonam; Zachariah, Michael; Ehrman, Sheryl; Shrivastava, Rohit; Dass, Sahab; Satsangi, Vibha; Michael Zachariah, Sheryl Ehrman Collaboration; Rohit Shrivastava, Sahab Dass Collaboration; Vibha R Satsangi, Poonam Sharma Team

    2013-03-01

    Graphene has an excellent electronic conductivity, a high theoretical surface area of 2630 m2/g and excellent mechanical properties and, thus, is a promising component for high-performance electrode materials. Following this, GO has been used to modify the PEC response of photoactive material hematite thin films in PEC cell. A reduced graphene oxide/iron oxide (R-GO/Fe2O3) thin film structure has been successfully prepared on ITO by directly growing iron oxide particles on the thermally reduced graphene oxide sheets prepared from suspension of exfoliated graphene oxide. R-GO/Fe2O3 thin films were tested in PEC cell and offered ten times higher photocurrent density than pristine Fe2O3 thin film sample. XRD, SEM, EDS, UV-Vis, Mott-Schottky and Raman studies were carried out to study spectro-electrochemical properties. Enhanced PEC performance of these photoelectrodes was attributed to its porous morphology, improved conductivity upon favorable carrier transfer across the oxides interface.

  10. Chalcogenide Sensitized Carbon Based TiO2 Nanomaterial For Solar Driven Applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pathak, Pawan

    The demand for renewable energy is growing because fossils fuels are depleting at a rapid pace. Solar energy an abundant green energy resource. Utilizing this resource in a smart manner can resolve energy-crisis related issues. Sun light can be efficiently harvested using semiconductor based materials by utilizing photo-generated charges for numerous beneficial applications. The main goal of this thesis is to synthesize different nanostructures of TiO2, develop a novel method of coupling and synthesizing chalcogenide nanocrystals with TiO2 and to study the charge transportation effects of the various carbon allotropes in the chalcogenide nanocrystal sensitized TiO2 nanostructure. We have fabricated different nanostructures of TiO2 as solar energy harvesting materials. Effects of the different phases of TiO2 have also been studied. The anatase phase of TiO2 is more photoactive than the rutile phase of TiO2, and the higher dimension of the TiO2 can increase the surface area of the material which can produce higher photocurrent. Since TiO2 only absorbs in the UV range; to increase the absorbance TiO2 should be coupled to visible light absorbing materials. This dissertation presents a simple approach to synthesize and couple chalcogenide nanocrystals with TiO2 nanostructure to form a heterostructured composite. An atmospheric pressure based, single precursor, one-pot approach has been developed and tested to assemble chalcogenide nanocrystal on the TiO2 surface. Surface characterization using microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and elemental analysis indicates the formation of nanocrystals along the nanotube walls and inter-tubular spacing. Optical measurements indicate that the chalcogenide nanocrystals absorb in the visible region and demonstrate an increase in photocurrent in comparison to bare TiO2 nanostructure. The CdS synthesized TiO2 nanostructure produced the highest photocurrent as measured in the three electrode system. We have also assembled the PbS nanocrystal sensitized photoanode using the one pot method. Finally, the charge transportation effect of carbon allotropes has been studied. For this we assembled TiO2 conductive carbon chalcogenide nanocomposite system. Surface and elemental characterization using electron microscopy, EDX (energy dispersive x-ray) and x-ray diffraction pattern, provide the insights into the assembly of the nanostructure. Optical absorbance, Photo chronometry, Linear sweep voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance analysis have been used to provide opto-electronic performance of the material. We have studied the loading effect of various carbon allotropes, [fullerene (C 60), reduced graphene oxide (RGO), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene quantum dots (GQDs)], loading effect of chalcogenide, and effect of nitrogen doping on the carbon allotropes to optimize the performance of the heterostructure. This dissertation is expected to impact the materials synthesis strategies and assemble the nanostructures used in composite electrode driven applications in the area of photo electrochemistry, PV, solar-fuels, and other associated topics of energy storage and sensing.

  11. Reduction of graphene oxide by aniline with its concomitant oxidative polymerization.

    PubMed

    Xu, Li Qun; Liu, Yi Liang; Neoh, Koon-Gee; Kang, En-Tang; Fu, Guo Dong

    2011-04-19

    Graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets are readily reduced by aniline above room temperature in an aqueous acid medium, with the aniline simultaneously undergoing oxidative polymerization to produce the reduced graphene oxide-polyaniline nanofiber (RGO-PANi) composites. The resulting RGO-PANi composites and RGO (after dissolution of PANi) were characterized by XPS, XRD analysis, TGA, UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, and TEM. It was also found that the RGO-PANi composites exhibit good specific capacitance during galvanostatic charging-discharging when used as capacitor electrodes. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. Magnetite nano-islands on silicon-carbide with graphene

    DOE PAGES

    Anderson, Nathaniel A.; Zhang, Qiang; Hupalo, Myron; ...

    2017-01-05

    X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) measurements of iron nano-islands grown on graphene and covered with a Au film for passivation reveal that the oxidation through defects in the Au film spontaneously leads to the formation of magnetite nano-particles (i.e, Fe 3O 4). The Fe nano-islands (20 and 75 monolayers; MLs) are grown on epitaxial graphene formed by thermally annealing 6HSiC( 0001) and subsequently covered, in the growth chamber, with nominal 20 layers of Au. Our X-ray absorption spectroscopy and XMCD measurements at applied magnetic fields show that the thin film (20 ML) is totally converted to magnetite whereas the thickermore » lm (75 ML) exhibits properties of magnetite but also those of pure metallic iron. Temperature dependence of the XMCD signal (of both samples) shows a clear transition at T V ≈ 120 K consistent with the Verwey transition of bulk magnetite. These results have implications on the synthesis of magnetite nano-crystals and also on their regular arrangements on functional substrates such as graphene.« less

  13. Magnetite nano-islands on silicon-carbide with graphene

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Anderson, Nathaniel A.; Zhang, Qiang; Hupalo, Myron

    X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) measurements of iron nano-islands grown on graphene and covered with a Au film for passivation reveal that the oxidation through defects in the Au film spontaneously leads to the formation of magnetite nano-particles (i.e, Fe 3O 4). The Fe nano-islands (20 and 75 monolayers; MLs) are grown on epitaxial graphene formed by thermally annealing 6HSiC( 0001) and subsequently covered, in the growth chamber, with nominal 20 layers of Au. Our X-ray absorption spectroscopy and XMCD measurements at applied magnetic fields show that the thin film (20 ML) is totally converted to magnetite whereas the thickermore » lm (75 ML) exhibits properties of magnetite but also those of pure metallic iron. Temperature dependence of the XMCD signal (of both samples) shows a clear transition at T V ≈ 120 K consistent with the Verwey transition of bulk magnetite. These results have implications on the synthesis of magnetite nano-crystals and also on their regular arrangements on functional substrates such as graphene.« less

  14. Bio-Reduction of Graphene Oxide Using Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria and Its Implication on Anti-Biocorrosion.

    PubMed

    Song, Tian-Shun; Tan, Wei-Min; Xie, Jingjing

    2018-08-01

    In this paper, we developed an environmental friendly, cost effective, simple and green approach to reduce graphene oxide (GO) by a sulfate-reducing bacterium Desulfovibrio desulfuricans. The D. desulfuricans reduces exfoliated GO to reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at 25 °C in an aqueous solution without any toxic and environmentally harmful reducing agents. The rGO was characterized with X-ray Diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscope, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Raman Spectroscopy. The analysis results showed that rGO had excellent properties and multi-layer graphene sheets structure. Furthermore, we demonstrated that D. desulfuricans, one of the primary bacteria responsible for the biocorrosion of various metals, might reduce GO to rGO on the surface of copper and prevented the corrosion of copper, which confirmed that electrophoretic deposition of GO on the surface of metals had great potential on the anti-biocorrosion applications.

  15. Enhanced and selective ammonia sensing of reduced graphene oxide based chemo resistive sensor at room temperature

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kumar, Ramesh, E-mail: rameshphysicsdu@gmail.com; Kaur, Amarjeet, E-mail: amarkaur@physics.du.ac.in

    The reduced graphene oxide thin films were fabricated by using the spin coating method. The reduced graphene oxide samples were characterised by Raman studies to obtain corresponding D and G bands at 1360 and 1590 cm{sup −1} respectively. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectra consists of peak corresponds to sp{sup 2} hybridisation of carbon atoms at 1560 cm{sup −1}. The reduced graphene oxide based chemoresistive sensor exhibited a p-type semiconductor behaviour in ambient conditions and showed good sensitivity to different concentration of ammonia from 25 ppm to 500 ppm and excellent selectivity at room temperature. The sensor displays selectivity to several hazardous vapours such asmore » methanol, ethanol, acetone and hydrazine hydrate. The sensor demonstrated a sensitivity of 9.8 at 25 ppm concentration of ammonia with response time of 163 seconds.« less

  16. Electrochemical comparison of nickel and nickel hydroxide nanoparticles composited with reduced graphene oxide and polyaniline for their supercapacitor application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Viswanthan, Aranganathan; Shetty, Adka Nityananda

    2018-04-01

    The reduced graphene oxide/polyaniline/Ni(OH)2 (GP-Ni(OH)2) and reduced graphene oxide/polyaniline/Ni (GP-Ni) nanocomposites were synthesized by facile in situ single step chemical method. The constituents were confirmed by powder-XRD, and the electrochemical characterizations were carried out using cyclic voltammetry(CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge (GCD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The electrochemical contribution of Ni(OH)2 and Ni to their supercapacitance along with reduced graphene oxide and polyaniline was compared. The GP-Ni nanocomposite exhibited a specific capacitance of 266.66 F g-1, energy density of 53.33 W h kg-1 and power density of 1385 W kg-1 at a current density of 0.25 A g-1 and the results were enhanced to 21% and more promising than that of nanocomposite GP-Ni(OH)2.

  17. Electrical current mediated interconversion between graphene oxide to reduced grapene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Teoh, H. F.; Tao, Y.; Tok, E. S.; Ho, G. W.; Sow, C. H.

    2011-04-01

    In this work, we demonstrate that graphene oxide (GO) can be reversibly converted to reduced-graphene-oxide (rGO) through the use of electric current. Strong electric field could cause ionization of water molecules in air to generate H+ ions at cathode, causing GO to be reduced. When the bias is reversed, the same electrode becomes positive and OH- ions are produced. According to Le Chatelier Principle, it then favors the reverse reaction, converting rGO back to GO, GO+2H++2e-=>rGO+H2O. X-ray spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were carried to verify the conversion reversibility in the reversed process.

  18. Temperature-time dependent transmittance, sheet resistance and bonding energy of reduced graphene oxide on soda lime glass

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Raj; Kumar, R. Manoj; Bera, Parthasarathi; Ariharan, S.; Lahiri, Debrupa; Lahiri, Indranil

    2017-12-01

    Reduced graphene oxide coated soda lime glass can act as an alternative transparent/conducting electrode for many opto-electronic applications. However, bonding between the deposited reduced graphene oxide film and the glass substrate is important for achieving better stability of the coating and an extended device lifetime. In the present study, delamination energy of reduced graphene oxide on soda lime glass was quantified by using nanoscratch technique. Graphene oxide was deposited on soda lime glass by dip coating technique and was thermally reduced at different temperatures (100 °C, 200 °C, 300 °C, 400 °C and 500 °C) and treatment time (2 h, 3 h, 4 h, 5 h and 10 h) in Ar (95%) with H2 (5%) atmosphere. An inverse behavior of delamination energy with temperature and treatment time was observed, which could be correlated with the removal of oxygen functional groups. Sheet resistance of the film demonstrated a steady decay with increasing temperature and treatment time. Functional groups attached to the graphene planes have more influence on conductivity than groups attached to the edges. Removal of functional groups could also be related to optical transmittance of the samples. Knowledge generated in this study with respect to delamination energy, sheet resistance and optical transmittance could be extensively used for various opto-electronic applications.

  19. Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Nolan, Hugo; Mendoza-Sanchez, Beatriz; Ashok Kumar, Nanjundan; McEvoy, Niall; O'Brien, Sean; Nicolosi, Valeria; Duesberg, Georg S

    2014-02-14

    Herein we use Nitrogen-doped reduced Graphene Oxide (N-rGO) as the active material in supercapacitor electrodes. Building on a previous work detailing the synthesis of this material, electrodes were fabricated via spray-deposition of aqueous dispersions and the electrochemical charge storage mechanism was investigated. Results indicate that the functionalised graphene displays improved performance compared to non-functionalised graphene. The simplicity of fabrication suggests ease of up-scaling of such electrodes for commercial applications.

  20. Graphene oxide vs. reduced graphene oxide as carbon support in porphyrin peroxidase biomimetic nanomaterials.

    PubMed

    Socaci, C; Pogacean, F; Biris, A R; Coros, M; Rosu, M C; Magerusan, L; Katona, G; Pruneanu, S

    2016-02-01

    The paper describes the preparation of supramolecular assemblies of tetrapyridylporphyrin (TPyP) and its metallic complexes with graphene oxide (GO) and thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRGO). The two carbon supports are introducing different characteristics in the absorption spectra of the investigated nanocomposites. Raman spectroscopy shows that the absorption of iron-tetrapyridylporphyrin is more efficient on GO than TRGO, suggesting that oxygen functionalities are involved in the non-covalent interaction between the iron-porphyrin and graphene. The biomimetic peroxidase activity is investigated and the two iron-containing composites exhibit a better catalytic activity than each component of the assembly, and their cobalt and manganese homologues, respectively. The main advantages of this work include the demonstration of graphene oxide as a very good support for graphene-based nanomaterials with peroxidase-like activity (K(M)=0.292 mM), the catalytic activity being observed even with very small amounts of porphyrins (the TPyP:graphene ratio=1:50). Its potential application in the detection of lipophilic antioxidants (vitamin E can be measured in the 10(-5)-10(-4) M range) is also shown. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Toxicology Study of Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes and Reduced Graphene Oxide in Human Sperm.

    PubMed

    Asghar, Waseem; Shafiee, Hadi; Velasco, Vanessa; Sah, Vasu R; Guo, Shirui; El Assal, Rami; Inci, Fatih; Rajagopalan, Adhithi; Jahangir, Muntasir; Anchan, Raymond M; Mutter, George L; Ozkan, Mihrimah; Ozkan, Cengiz S; Demirci, Utkan

    2016-08-19

    Carbon-based nanomaterials such as single-walled carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide are currently being evaluated for biomedical applications including in vivo drug delivery and tumor imaging. Several reports have studied the toxicity of carbon nanomaterials, but their effects on human male reproduction have not been fully examined. Additionally, it is not clear whether the nanomaterial exposure has any effect on sperm sorting procedures used in clinical settings. Here, we show that the presence of functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT-COOH) and reduced graphene oxide at concentrations of 1-25 μg/mL do not affect sperm viability. However, SWCNT-COOH generate significant reactive superoxide species at a higher concentration (25 μg/mL), while reduced graphene oxide does not initiate reactive species in human sperm. Further, we demonstrate that exposure to these nanomaterials does not hinder the sperm sorting process, and microfluidic sorting systems can select the sperm that show low oxidative stress post-exposure.

  2. Toxicology Study of Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes and Reduced Graphene Oxide in Human Sperm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Asghar, Waseem; Shafiee, Hadi; Velasco, Vanessa; Sah, Vasu R.; Guo, Shirui; El Assal, Rami; Inci, Fatih; Rajagopalan, Adhithi; Jahangir, Muntasir; Anchan, Raymond M.; Mutter, George L.; Ozkan, Mihrimah; Ozkan, Cengiz S.; Demirci, Utkan

    2016-08-01

    Carbon-based nanomaterials such as single-walled carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide are currently being evaluated for biomedical applications including in vivo drug delivery and tumor imaging. Several reports have studied the toxicity of carbon nanomaterials, but their effects on human male reproduction have not been fully examined. Additionally, it is not clear whether the nanomaterial exposure has any effect on sperm sorting procedures used in clinical settings. Here, we show that the presence of functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT-COOH) and reduced graphene oxide at concentrations of 1-25 μg/mL do not affect sperm viability. However, SWCNT-COOH generate significant reactive superoxide species at a higher concentration (25 μg/mL), while reduced graphene oxide does not initiate reactive species in human sperm. Further, we demonstrate that exposure to these nanomaterials does not hinder the sperm sorting process, and microfluidic sorting systems can select the sperm that show low oxidative stress post-exposure.

  3. Reduced graphene oxide film based highly responsive infrared detector

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khan, Mustaque A.; Nanda, Karuna K.; Krupanidhi, Saluru B.

    2017-08-01

    Due to the unique optical properties, graphene can effectively be used for the detection of infrared light. In this regard, reduced graphene oxide (RGO) has drawn considerable attention in scientific society because of simplicity of preparation and tunable properties. Here, we report the synthesis of RGO by solvothermal reduction of graphene oxide (GO) in ethanol and the detection of infrared light (1064 and 1550 nm) with metal—RGO—metal configuration. We have observed that photocurrent, responsivity as well as the external quantum efficiency increase with C/O ratio. The responsivity value in near-infrared region can be as high as 1.34 A · W-1 and the external quantum efficiency is more than 100%. Response times of these devices are in the order of few seconds. Overall, the responsivity of our device is found to be better than many of the already reported values where graphene or reduced graphene oxide is the only active material. The high value of quantum efficiency is due to strong light absorption and the presence of mid-gap states band in RGOs.

  4. Few-Flakes Reduced Graphene Oxide Sensors for Organic Vapors with a High Signal-to-Noise Ratio

    PubMed Central

    Hasan, Nowzesh; Zhang, Wenli

    2017-01-01

    This paper reports our findings on how to prepare a graphene oxide-based gas sensor for sensing fast pulses of volatile organic compounds with a better signal-to-noise ratio. We use rapid acetone pulses of varying concentrations to test the sensors. First, we compare the effect of graphene oxide deposition method (dielectrophoresis versus solvent evaporation) on the sensor’s response. We find that dielectrophoresis yields films with uniform coverage and better sensor response. Second, we examine the effect of chemical reduction. Contrary to prior reports, we find that graphene oxide reduction leads to a reduction in sensor response and current noise, thus keeping the signal-to-noise ratio the same. We found that if we sonicated the sensor in acetone, we created a sensor with a few flakes of reduced graphene oxide. Such sensors provided a higher signal-to-noise ratio that could be correlated to the vapor concentration of acetone with better repeatability. Modeling shows that the sensor’s response is due to one-site Langmuir adsorption or an overall single exponent process. Further, the desorption of acetone as deduced from the sensor recovery signal follows a single exponent process. Thus, we show a simple way to improve the signal-to-noise ratio in reduced graphene oxide sensors. PMID:29065488

  5. Shape-Dependent Activity of Ceria for Hydrogen Electro-Oxidation in Reduced-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.

    PubMed

    Tong, Xiaofeng; Luo, Ting; Meng, Xie; Wu, Hao; Li, Junliang; Liu, Xuejiao; Ji, Xiaona; Wang, Jianqiang; Chen, Chusheng; Zhan, Zhongliang

    2015-11-04

    Single crystalline ceria nanooctahedra, nanocubes, and nanorods are hydrothermally synthesized, colloidally impregnated into the porous La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-δ (LSGM) scaffolds, and electrochemically evaluated as the anode catalysts for reduced temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Well-defined surface terminations are confirmed by the high-resolution transmission electron microscopy--(111) for nanooctahedra, (100) for nanocubes, and both (110) and (100) for nanorods. Temperature-programmed reduction in H2 shows the highest reducibility for nanorods, followed sequentially by nanocubes and nanooctahedra. Measurements of the anode polarization resistances and the fuel cell power densities reveal different orders of activity of ceria nanocrystals at high and low temperatures for hydrogen electro-oxidation, i.e., nanorods > nanocubes > nanooctahedra at T ≤ 450 °C and nanooctahedra > nanorods > nanocubes at T ≥ 500 °C. Such shape-dependent activities of these ceria nanocrystals have been correlated to their difference in the local structure distortions and thus in the reducibility. These findings will open up a new strategy for design of advanced catalysts for reduced-temperature SOFCs by elaborately engineering the shape of nanocrystals and thus selectively exposing the crystal facets. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  6. Single-Nanowire Electrochemical Probe Detection for Internally Optimized Mechanism of Porous Graphene in Electrochemical Devices.

    PubMed

    Hu, Ping; Yan, Mengyu; Wang, Xuanpeng; Han, Chunhua; He, Liang; Wei, Xiujuan; Niu, Chaojiang; Zhao, Kangning; Tian, Xiaocong; Wei, Qiulong; Li, Zijia; Mai, Liqiang

    2016-03-09

    Graphene has been widely used to enhance the performance of energy storage devices due to its high conductivity, large surface area, and excellent mechanical flexibility. However, it is still unclear how graphene influences the electrochemical performance and reaction mechanisms of electrode materials. The single-nanowire electrochemical probe is an effective tool to explore the intrinsic mechanisms of the electrochemical reactions in situ. Here, pure MnO2 nanowires, reduced graphene oxide/MnO2 wire-in-scroll nanowires, and porous graphene oxide/MnO2 wire-in-scroll nanowires are employed to investigate the capacitance, ion diffusion coefficient, and charge storage mechanisms in single-nanowire electrochemical devices. The porous graphene oxide/MnO2 wire-in-scroll nanowire delivers an areal capacitance of 104 nF/μm(2), which is 4.0 and 2.8 times as high as those of reduced graphene oxide/MnO2 wire-in-scroll nanowire and MnO2 nanowire, respectively, at a scan rate of 20 mV/s. It is demonstrated that the reduced graphene oxide wrapping around the MnO2 nanowire greatly increases the electronic conductivity of the active materials, but decreases the ion diffusion coefficient because of the shielding effect of graphene. By creating pores in the graphene, the ion diffusion coefficient is recovered without degradation of the electron transport rate, which significantly improves the capacitance. Such single-nanowire electrochemical probes, which can detect electrochemical processes and behavior in situ, can also be fabricated with other active materials for energy storage and other applications in related fields.

  7. Synthesis of dendritic platinum nanoparticles/lucigenin/reduced graphene oxide hybrid with chemiluminescence activity.

    PubMed

    He, Yi; Cui, Hua

    2012-04-16

    Multifunctional hybrid: A dendritic platinum nanoparticle/lucigenin/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) hybrid with chemiluminescence (CL) activity was prepared for the first time by using lucigenin as a linker through simultaneous reduction of H(2) PtCl(4) and a lucigenin-functionalized graphene oxide composite by sodium borohydride (see scheme). The hybrid may have potential applications as a CL sensor, in catalysis, energy conversion, and opto-electronic systems. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  8. Optoacoustic response from graphene-based solutions embedded in optical phantoms by using 905-nm high-power diode-laser assemblies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Leggio, Luca; Gallego, Daniel C.; Gawali, Sandeep Babu; Dadrasnia, Ehsan; Sánchez, Miguel; Rodríguez, Sergio; González, Marta; Carpintero, Guillermo; Osiński, Marek; Lamela, Horacio

    2016-03-01

    During the last two decades, optoacoustic imaging has been developed as a novel biomedical imaging technique based on the generation of ultrasound waves by means of laser light. In this work, we investigate the optoacoustic response from graphene-based solutions by using a compact and cost-effective system based on an assembly of several 905-nm pulsed high-power diode lasers coupled to a bundle of 200-μm diameter- core optical fibers. The coupled light is conveyed into a lens system and focused on an absorber consisting of graphene-based nanomaterials (graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, and reduced graphene-oxide/gold-nanoparticle hybrid, respectively) diluted in ethanol and hosted in slightly scattering optical phantoms. The high absorption of these graphene-based solutions suggests their potential future use in optoacoustic applications as contrast agents.

  9. Facile photoreduction of graphene oxide by an NAD(P)H model: Hantzsch 1,4-dihydropyridine.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Hui-Hui; Liu, Qiang; Feng, Ke; Chen, Bin; Tung, Chen-Ho; Wu, Li-Zhu

    2012-05-29

    To make "clean" reduced GO sheets in high quality and in large scale, a natural reduced nicotinamine adenine dinucleotide NAD(P)H model, Hantzsch 1,4-dihydropyridine (HEH), is used as a mild organic photoreductant in this work. Benefiting from the intense absorption of HEH in the range of 300-420 nm, the graphene oxide (GO) can be readily reduced by HEH under UV light irradiation (λ > 320 nm) to afford single or few-layer reduced graphene oxide at room temperature. Studies on reduction extent reveal that both irradiation time and concentration ratio of HEH to GO are important for effective reduction of GO under UV light. The as-prepared photochemically reduced graphene oxide (PRGO) dispersion is stable without the need for any polymeric or surfactant stabilizers. Simply by extraction treatment, the "clean" PRGO sheets can be obtained in large quantities, and its conductivity approaches to 4680 S·m(-1) that is the highest value reported by photochemical approaches so far.

  10. Alkaline deoxygenated graphene oxide for supercapacitor applications: An effective green alternative for chemically reduced graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Perera, Sanjaya D.; Mariano, Ruperto G.; Nijem, Nour; Chabal, Yves; Ferraris, John P.; Balkus, Kenneth J.

    2012-10-01

    Graphene is a promising electrode material for energy storage applications. The most successful method for preparing graphene from graphite involves the oxidation of graphite to graphene oxide (GO) and reduction back to graphene. Even though different chemical and thermal methods have been developed to reduce GO to graphene, the use of less toxic materials to generate graphene still remains a challenge. In this study we developed a facile one-pot synthesis of deoxygenated graphene (hGO) via alkaline hydrothermal process, which exhibits similar properties to the graphene obtained via hydrazine reduction (i.e. the same degree of deoxygenation found in hydrazine reduced GO). Moreover, the hGO formed freestanding, binder-free paper electrodes for supercapacitors. Coin cell type (CR2032) symmetric supercapacitors were assembled using the hGO electrodes. Electrochemical characterization of hGO was carried out using lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and ethylmethylimidazolium bis-(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (EMITFSI) electrolytes. The results for the hGO electrodes were compared with the hydrazine reduced GO (rGO) electrode. The hGO electrode exhibits a energy density of 20 W h kg-1 and 50 W h kg-1 in LiTFSI and EMITFSI respectively, while delivering a maximum power density of 11 kW kg-1 and 14.7 kW kg-1 in LiTFSI and EMITFSI, respectively.

  11. Aggregation and Stability of Reduced Graphene Oxide: Complex Roles of Divalent Cations, pH, and Natural Organic Matter

    EPA Science Inventory

    The aggregation and stability of graphene oxide (GO) and three successively reduced GO (rGO) nanomaterials were investigated. Reduced GO species were partially reduced GO (rGO-1h), intermediately reduced GO (rGO-2h), and fully reduced GO (rGO-5h). Specifically, influence of pH, i...

  12. In situ chemical synthesis of ruthenium oxide/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for electrochemical capacitor applications.

    PubMed

    Kim, Ji-Young; Kim, Kwang-Heon; Yoon, Seung-Beom; Kim, Hyun-Kyung; Park, Sang-Hoon; Kim, Kwang-Bum

    2013-08-07

    An in situ chemical synthesis approach has been developed to prepare ruthenium oxide/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposites. It is found that as the C/O ratio increases, the number density of RuO2 nanoparticles decreases, because the chemical interaction between the Ru ions and the oxygen-containing functional groups provides anchoring sites where the nucleation of particles takes place. For electrochemical capacitor applications, the microwave-hydrothermal process was carried out to improve the conductivity of RGO in RuO2/RGO nanocomposites. The significant improvement in capacitance and high rate capability might result from the RuO2 nanoparticles used as spacers that make the interior layers of the reduced graphene oxide electrode available for electrolyte access.

  13. The impact of adsorption on the localization of spins in graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, observed with electron paramagnetic resonance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kempiński, Mateusz; Florczak, Patryk; Jurga, Stefan; Śliwińska-Bartkowiak, Małgorzata; Kempiński, Wojciech

    2017-08-01

    We report the observations of electronic properties of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, performed with electron paramagnetic resonance technique in a broad temperature range. Both materials were examined in pure form and saturated with air, helium, and heavy water molecules. We show that spin localization strongly depends on the type and amount of molecules adsorbed at the graphene layer edges (and possible in-plane defects). Physical and chemical states of edges play crucial role in electrical transport within graphene-based materials, with hopping as the leading mechanism of charge carrier transport. Presented results are a good basis to understand the electronic properties of other carbon structures made of graphene-like building blocks. Most active carbons show some degree of functionalization and are known of having good adsorptive properties; thus, controlling both phenomena is important for many applications. Sample treatment with temperature, vacuum, and various adsorbents allowed for the observation of a possible metal-insulator transition and sorption pumping effects. The influence of adsorption on the localization phenomena in graphene would be very important if to consider the graphene-based material as possible candidates for the future spintronics that works in ambient conditions.

  14. Factors controlling the size of graphene oxide sheets produced via the graphite oxide route.

    PubMed

    Pan, Shuyang; Aksay, Ilhan A

    2011-05-24

    We have studied the effect of the oxidation path and the mechanical energy input on the size of graphene oxide sheets derived from graphite oxide. The cross-planar oxidation of graphite from the (0002) plane results in periodic cracking of the uppermost graphene oxide layer, limiting its lateral dimension to less than 30 μm. We use an energy balance between the elastic strain energy associated with the undulation of graphene oxide sheets at the hydroxyl and epoxy sites, the crack formation energy, and the interaction energy between graphene layers to determine the cell size of the cracks. As the effective crack propagation rate in the cross-planar direction is an order of magnitude smaller than the edge-to-center oxidation rate, graphene oxide single sheets larger than those defined by the periodic cracking cell size are produced depending on the aspect ratio of the graphite particles. We also demonstrate that external energy input from hydrodynamic drag created by fluid motion or sonication, further reduces the size of the graphene oxide sheets through tensile stress buildup in the sheets.

  15. Green chemistry approach for the synthesis of biocompatible graphene

    PubMed Central

    Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi; Han, Jae Woong; Kim, Jin-Hoi

    2013-01-01

    Background Graphene is a single-atom thick, two-dimensional sheet of hexagonally arranged carbon atoms isolated from its three-dimensional parent material, graphite. One of the most common methods for preparation of graphene is chemical exfoliation of graphite using powerful oxidizing agents. Generally, graphene is synthesized through deoxygenation of graphene oxide (GO) by using hydrazine, which is one of the most widespread and strongest reducing agents. Due to the high toxicity of hydrazine, it is not a promising reducing agent in large-scale production of graphene; therefore, this study focused on a green or sustainable synthesis of graphene and the biocompatibility of graphene in primary mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (PMEFs). Methods Here, we demonstrated a simple, rapid, and green chemistry approach for the synthesis of reduced GO (rGO) from GO using triethylamine (TEA) as a reducing agent and stabilizing agent. The obtained TEA reduced GO (TEA-rGO) was characterized by ultraviolet (UV)–visible absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Results The transition of graphene oxide to graphene was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy. XRD and SEM were used to investigate the crystallinity of graphene and the surface morphologies of prepared graphene respectively. The formation of defects further supports the functionalization of graphene as indicated in the Raman spectrum of TEA-rGO. Surface morphology and the thickness of the GO and TEA-rGO were analyzed using AFM. The presented results suggest that TEA-rGO shows significantly more biocompatibility with PMEFs cells than GO. Conclusion This is the first report about using TEA as a reducing as well as a stabilizing agent for the preparation of biocompatible graphene. The proposed safe and green method offers substitute routes for large-scale production of graphene for several biomedical applications. PMID:23940417

  16. Synthesis of reduced carbon nitride at the reduction by hydroquinone of water-soluble carbon nitride oxide (g-C3N4)O

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kharlamov, Alexey; Bondarenko, Marina; Kharlamova, Ganna; Fomenko, Veniamin

    2016-09-01

    For the first time at the reduction by hydroquinone of water-soluble carbon nitride oxide (g-C3N4)O reduced carbon nitride (or reduced multi-layer azagraphene) is obtained. It is differed from usually synthesized carbon nitride by a significantly large (on 0.09 nm) interplanar distance is. At the same time, the chemical bonds between atoms in a heteroatomic plane of reduced carbon nitride correspond to the bonds in a synthesized g-C3N4. The samples of water-soluble carbon nitride oxide were synthesized under the special reactionary conditions of a pyrolysis of melamine and urea. We believe that reduced carbon nitride consists of weakly connected carbon-nitrogen monosheets (azagraphene sheets) as well as reduced (from graphene oxide) graphene contains weakly connected graphene sheets.

  17. Graphene Synthesis & Graphene/Polymer Nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liao, Ken-Hsuan

    We successfully developed a novel, fast, hydrazine-free, high-yield method for producing single-layered graphene. Graphene sheets were formed from graphite oxide by reduction with de-ionized water at 130 ºC. Over 65% of the sheets are single graphene layers. A dehydration reaction of exfoliated graphene oxide was utilized to reduce oxygen and transform C-C bonds from sp3 to sp2. The reduction appears to occur in large uniform interconnected oxygen-free patches so that despite the presence of residual oxygen the sp2 carbon bonds formed on the sheets are sufficient to provide electronic properties comparable to reduced graphene sheets obtained using other methods. Cytotoxicity of aqueous graphene was investigated with Dr. Yu-Shen Lin by measuring mitochondrial activity in adherent human skin fibroblasts using two assays. The methyl-thiazolyl-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, a typical nanotoxicity assay, fails to predict the toxicity of graphene oxide and graphene toxicity because of the spontaneous reduction of MTT by graphene and graphene oxide, resulting in a false positive signal. An appropriate alternate assessment, using the water soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-8) assay, reveals that the compacted graphene sheets are more damaging to mammalian fibroblasts than the less densely packed graphene oxide. Clearly, the toxicity of graphene and graphene oxide depends on the exposure environment (i.e. whether or not aggregation occurs) and mode of interaction with cells (i.e. suspension versus adherent cell types). Ultralow percolation concentration of 0.15 wt% graphene, as determined by surface resistance and modulus, was observed from in situ polymerized thermally reduced graphene (TRG)/ poly-urethane-acrylate (PUA) nanocomposite. A homogeneous dispersion of TRG in PUA was revealed by TEM images. The aspect ratio of dispersed TRG, calculated from percolation concentration and modulus, was found to be equivalent to the reported aspect ratio of single-layered free standing TRG. This indicates TRG is mono-layer-dispersed in the matrix polymer. How graphene/polymer nanocomposite glass transition temperatures ( Tg) vary was investigated in this study. We measured Tg in PMMA. We used isotactic PMMA (i-PMMA) and syndiotactic-rich atactic PMMA (a-PMMA) to make TRG/PMMA nanocomposites using solvent blending and in situ polymerization in order to investigate the stereo-regularity and processing effects on the Tg. A T g increase was found in i-PMMA and in situ PMMA but not in a-PMMA. The results can be explained by the thin film confinement effect of polymer. We attribute the Tg increase to both a higher interaction density and a stronger hydrogen bonding at the interfaces. We have studied the elastic modulus of graphene oxide with various oxygen content. We used in situ AFM nano-indentation to measure the influence of oxygen on the elastic modulus of graphene oxide with various carbon/oxygen (C/O) ratios. The results show that chemical reduction (lower oxygen contents) decreases the elastic modulus of graphene oxide. We speculate that chemical reduction of oxygen atoms of epoxy groups on graphene oxide surface removes the bridging effect between carbon atoms, which leads to more flexible sheets. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

  18. Modulating optical properties of graphene oxide: role of prominent functional groups.

    PubMed

    Johari, Priya; Shenoy, Vivek B

    2011-09-27

    To modulate the electronic and optical properties of graphene oxide via controlled deoxidation, a proper understanding of the role of the individual functional group in determining these properties is required. We, therefore, have performed ab initio density functional theory based calculations to study the electronic and optical properties of model structures of graphene oxide with different coverages and compositions. In particular, we considered various concentrations of major functional groups like epoxides, hydroxyls, and carbonyls, which mainly consititute the graphene oxide and the reduced graphene oxide. Our calculated electron energy loss spectra (EELS) demonstrate the π plasmon peak to be less sensitive, while π + σ plasmon is found to have a significant blue shift of about 1.0-3.0 eV, when the concentration of epoxy and hydroxyl functional groups in graphene oxide vary from 25% to 75%. However, the increase in carbonyl groups in the center of the graphene sheet creates holes, which lead to the red shift of the EELS. In the case of 37.5% of oxygen-to-carbon ratio, we find the π plasmon peak to be shifted by roughly 1.0 eV as compared to that of the pristine graphene. Our results agree well with the experimental findings which suggest a blue shift in the EELS of graphene oxide and an absorption feature due to a π electron transition of the carbonyl groups at a lower energy than that of epoxy and hydroxyl groups. We also show that the increase in the width of the hole created by the carbonyl groups significantly decreases the optical gap and opens the band gap, and thus, we argue that reduced graphene oxide with mostly carbonyl groups could be a useful material for developing tunable opto-electronic nanodevices. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  19. Temperature dependent thermoelectric property of reduced graphene oxide-polyaniline composite

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mitra, Mousumi, E-mail: mousumimitrabesu@gmail.com; Banerjee, Dipali, E-mail: dipalibanerjeebesu@gmail.com; Kargupta, Kajari, E-mail: karguptakajari2010@gmail.com

    2016-05-06

    A composite material of reduced graphene oxide (rG) nanosheets with polyaniline (PANI) protonated by 5-sulfosalicylic acid has been synthesized via in situ oxidative polymerization method. The morphological and spectral characterizations have been done using FESEM and XRD measurements. The thermoelectric (TE) properties of the reduced graphene oxide-polyaniline composite (rG-P) has been studied in the temperature range from 300-400 K. The electrical conductivity and the Seebeck coefficient of rG-P is higher than the of pure PANI, while the thermal conductivity of the composite still keeps much low value ensuing an increase in the dimensionless figure of merit (ZT) in the wholemore » temperature range.« less

  20. Fluorescence intermittency originates from reclustering in two-dimensional organic semiconductors

    DOE PAGES

    Ruth, Anthony; Hayashi, Michitoshi; Zapol, Peter; ...

    2017-02-22

    Fluorescence intermittency or blinking is observed in nearly all nanoscale fluorophores. It is characterized by universal power-law distributions in on- and off-times as well as 1/f behaviour in corresponding emission power spectral densities. Blinking, previously seen in confined zero- and one-dimensional systems has recently been documented in two-dimensional reduced graphene oxide. Here we show that unexpected blinking during graphene oxide-to-reduced graphene oxide photoreduction is attributed, in large part, to the redistribution of carbon sp 2 domains. This reclustering generates fluctuations in the number/size of emissive graphenic nanoclusters wherein multiscale modelling captures essential experimental aspects of reduced graphene oxide’s absorption/emission trajectories,more » while simultaneously connecting them to the underlying photochemistry responsible for graphene oxide’s reduction. These simulations thus establish causality between currently unexplained, long timescale emission intermittency in a quantum mechanical fluorophore and identifiable chemical reactions that ultimately lead to switching between on and off states.« less

  1. A Top-Down Strategy toward SnSb In-Plane Nanoconfined 3D N-Doped Porous Graphene Composite Microspheres for High Performance Na-Ion Battery Anode.

    PubMed

    Qin, Jian; Wang, Tianshuai; Liu, Dongye; Liu, Enzuo; Zhao, Naiqin; Shi, Chunsheng; He, Fang; Ma, Liying; He, Chunnian

    2018-03-01

    Engineering of 3D graphene/metal composites with ultrasmall sized metal and robust metal-graphene interfacial interaction for energy storage application is still a challenge and rarely reported. In this work, a facile top-down strategy is developed for the preparation of SnSb-in-plane nanoconfined 3D N-doped porous graphene networks for sodium ion battery anodes, which are composed of several tens of interconnected empty N-graphene boxes in-plane firmly embedded with ultrasmall SnSb nanocrystals. The all-around encapsulation (plane-to-plane contact) architecture that provides a large interface between N-graphene and SnSb nanocrystal not only effectively enhances the electron conductivity and structural integrity of the overall electrode, but also offers excess interfacial sodium storage, thus leading to much enhanced high-rate sodium storage capacity and stability, which has been proven by both experimental results and first-principles simulations. Moreover, this top-down strategy can enable new paths to the low-cost and high-yield synthesis of 3D graphene/metal composites for applications in energy-related fields and beyond. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. N-doped structures and surface functional groups of reduced graphene oxide and their effect on the electrochemical performance of supercapacitor with organic electrolyte

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Shin-Ming; Yang, Shin-Yi; Wang, Yu-Sheng; Tsai, Hsiu-Ping; Tien, Hsi-Wen; Hsiao, Sheng-Tsung; Liao, Wei-Hao; Chang, Chien-Liang; Ma, Chen-Chi M.; Hu, Chi-Chang

    2015-03-01

    Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO) has been synthesized using a simple, efficient method combining instant thermal exfoliation and covalent bond transformation from a melamine-graphene oxide mixture. The capacitive performance of N-rGO has been tested in both aqueous (0.5 M H2SO4) and organic (1 M tetraethyl-ammonium tetrafluoroborate (TEABF4) in propylene carbonate (PC)) electrolytes, which are compared with those obtained from thermal-reduced graphene oxide (T-rGO) and chemical-reduced graphene oxide (C-rGO). The contributions of scan-rate-independent (double-layer-like) and scan-rate-dependent (pseudo-capacitance-like) capacitance of all reduced graphene oxides in both aqueous and organic electrolytes were evaluated and compared. The results show that relatively rich oxygen-containing functional groups on C-rGO form significant ion-diffusion barrier, resulting in worse electrochemical responses in organic electrolyte. By contrast, the N-doped structures, large surface area, and lower density of oxygen-containing groups make N-rGO become a promising electrode material for organic electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs). The capacitance rate-retention of N-rGO reaches 71.1% in 1 M TEABF4/PC electrolyte when the scan rate is elevated to 200 mVs-1, demonstrating that N-rGO improves the relatively low-power drawback of EDLCs in organic electrolytes. The specific energy and power of a symmetric N-rGO cell in the organic electrolyte reach 25 Wh kg-1 and 10 kW kg-1, respectively.

  3. Modified Unzipping Technique to Prepare Graphene Nano-Sheets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Al-Tamimi, B. H.; Farid, S. B. H.; Chyad, F. A.

    2018-05-01

    Graphene nano-sheets have been prepared via unzipping approach of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The method includes two chemical-steps, in which a multi-parameter oxidation step is performed to achieve unzipping the carbon nanotubes. Then, a reduction step is carried out to achieve the final graphene nano-sheets. In the oxidation step, the oxidant material was minimized and balanced with longer curing time. This modification is made in order to reduce the oxygen-functional groups at the ends of graphene basal planes, which reduce its electrical conductivity. In addition, a similar adjustment is achieved in the reduction step, i.e. the consumed chemicals is reduced which make the overall process more economic and eco-friendly. The prepared nano-sheets were characterized by atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The average thickness of the prepared graphene was about 5.23 nm.

  4. Synergetic effect of MoS2 and graphene as cocatalysts for enhanced photocatalytic activity of BiPO4 nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lv, Hua; Liu, Yumin; Tang, Haibo; Zhang, Peng; Wang, Jianji

    2017-12-01

    The photodegradation of organic pollutants is an attractive green chemistry technology for water pollution control. Here we prepared a new composite material consisting of BiPO4 nanocrystals grown on layered graphene and MoS2 as a high-performance photocatalyst for the photodegradation of organic pollutants. This composite material was synthesized by a facile one-pot microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique in the presence of layered graphene and MoS2. Through optimizing the loading content of each component, the BiPO4-MoS2/graphene nanocomposite exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine (RhB) when the content of MoS2 and graphene was 2 wt% and 7 wt%, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of the new composite photocatalyst was attributed to the positive synergetic effect of the layered graphene and MoS2 as cocatalyst, which acted as electron collector and transporter for the interfacial electron transfer from BiPO4 to electron acceptor in the aqueous solution and thus suppressed the charge recombination and made the photogenerated holes more available to participated in the oxidation process. Moreover, the presence of layered MoS2/graphene hybrid could offer more reactive sites and activated the O2 molecular in water to form superoxide radical, thereby resulting in the enhanced photocatalytic activity.

  5. Understanding and Exploration of the Biomineralization Mechanisms for the Controllable Synthesis of Nanomaterials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiao, Junwu

    This thesis is mainly concerned with understanding the biomineralization mechanisms, and further extrapolating them for the controllable synthesis of transition metal compound nanomaterials on graphene sheets for energy storage applications in electrochemical capacitors and lithium ion batteries (LIB). Firstly, we have studied the mimetic biomineralization process of CaCO 3 on a stearic acid or 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) Langmuir monolayer at the air-water interface by in-situ Brewster angle microscopy (BAM) and ex-situ electron microscopy. Amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) precursors are directly nucleated from solvated ions prior to the crystal nuclei on a Langmuir monolayer. On a DPPC monolayer, numerous fresh ACC nanoparticles heterogeneously and continuously nucleated at the air-water interface are transformed into the metastable vaterite nanocrystals. Driven by the trend to decrease surface energy, the vaterite nanocrystals self-aggregate and grow into the loose-packed hollow ellipsoidal vaterite polycrystals. These nanocrystals in vaterite polycrystals are then gradually orientated in the same direction to evolve into tight-packed ellipsoidal mesocrystals. As the crystallization time is further increased, the metastable vaterite mesocrystals are eventually transformed into the most thermodynamically stable calcite crystals. Secondly, organic and inorganic additives control over the shapes, sizes and phases of inorganic nanocrystals and arrange them into ordered structures from amorphous precursors in the organisms. This interesting phenomenon has galvanized many attempts to mimic the biomineralization process for synthesizing novel materials. We have studied the crystallization processes from small citrate molecules stabilized ACC precursors under cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) micellar structures. Amorphous precursors, with a hydrated and disordered structure, are easily transformed and molded into CaCO 3 crystals with novel morphologies, such as, hollow radiating cluster-like particles, hollow sheaf-like crystals, and hollow rods, which are depended on CTAB micellar structures. Besides organic additives, inorganic dopants, such as, Mg2+ ion, are found to be another key factor to influence the polymorph and morphology. We combine two types of additives (Mg 2+ ion and a denatured collagen protein (gelatin)) to direct the mineralization of CaCO3. The polymorphs and morphologies critically depend on gelatin concentration at a given Mg2+ concentration. While, at a given gelatin concentration, the Mg molar percentages in the mother solution, although not a determining factor for the polymorphs, can affect the crystal micro- and nano-structures. The controlled crystallization can be rationalized by the interplay between Mg2+ and gelatin, which mutually enhances their uptake and regulate the concomitant mineralization. The biomineralization process can be divided into the nucleation of amorphous precursors and the subsequent amorphous to crystalline transformation. Thirdly, on the basis of understanding the biomineralization mechanisms discussed above, we extrapolate it to synthesize transition metal compound nanomaterials on graphene sheets for energy storage application. We have applied a bio-inspired approach to prepare CoxNi1-xO (0≤x<1) nanorods on graphene sheets, breaking out the Co/Ni molar ratio limitation for the known stable mixed oxide spinel NiCo2O4. This success has allowed us to further screen the compositions for electrochemical capacitor. CoxNi1-xO/graphene composite electrodes achieve a peak specific capacitance as the Co/Ni molar ratio is closed to 1. This bio-inspired approach also is applied for anchoring Ni(OH)2 nanocrystals on graphene sheets. The size and morphology of the Ni(OH)2 nanocrystals can be controlled via altering the treated temperature during the Ostwald ripening process. The specific capacitance decreased with increasing Ni(OH) 2 nanocrystal size, whereas the cycling stability performance increased with increasing the stability of Ni(OH)2 in the nanocomposites. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

  6. Supercapacitors of nanocrystalline metal-organic frameworks.

    PubMed

    Choi, Kyung Min; Jeong, Hyung Mo; Park, Jung Hyo; Zhang, Yue-Biao; Kang, Jeung Ku; Yaghi, Omar M

    2014-07-22

    The high porosity of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has been used to achieve exceptional gas adsorptive properties but as yet remains largely unexplored for electrochemical energy storage devices. This study shows that MOFs made as nanocrystals (nMOFs) can be doped with graphene and successfully incorporated into devices to function as supercapacitors. A series of 23 different nMOFs with multiple organic functionalities and metal ions, differing pore sizes and shapes, discrete and infinite metal oxide backbones, large and small nanocrystals, and a variety of structure types have been prepared and examined. Several members of this series give high capacitance; in particular, a zirconium MOF exhibits exceptionally high capacitance. It has the stack and areal capacitance of 0.64 and 5.09 mF cm(-2), about 6 times that of the supercapacitors made from the benchmark commercial activated carbon materials and a performance that is preserved over at least 10000 charge/discharge cycles.

  7. High energy density asymmetric supercapacitors with a nickel oxide nanoflake cathode and a 3D reduced graphene oxide anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luan, Feng; Wang, Gongming; Ling, Yichuan; Lu, Xihong; Wang, Hanyu; Tong, Yexiang; Liu, Xiao-Xia; Li, Yat

    2013-08-01

    Here we demonstrate a high energy density asymmetric supercapacitor with nickel oxide nanoflake arrays as the cathode and reduced graphene oxide as the anode. Nickel oxide nanoflake arrays were synthesized on a flexible carbon cloth substrate using a seed-mediated hydrothermal method. The reduced graphene oxide sheets were deposited on three-dimensional (3D) nickel foam by hydrothermal treatment of nickel foam in graphene oxide solution. The nanostructured electrodes provide a large effective surface area. The asymmetric supercapacitor device operates with a voltage of 1.7 V and achieved a remarkable areal capacitance of 248 mF cm-2 (specific capacitance of 50 F g-1) at a charge/discharge current density of 1 mA cm-2 and a maximum energy density of 39.9 W h kg-1 (based on the total mass of active materials of 5.0 mg). Furthermore, the device showed an excellent charge/discharge cycling performance in 1.0 M KOH electrolyte at a current density of 5 mA cm-2, with a capacitance retention of 95% after 3000 cycles.

  8. High energy density asymmetric supercapacitors with a nickel oxide nanoflake cathode and a 3D reduced graphene oxide anode.

    PubMed

    Luan, Feng; Wang, Gongming; Ling, Yichuan; Lu, Xihong; Wang, Hanyu; Tong, Yexiang; Liu, Xiao-Xia; Li, Yat

    2013-09-07

    Here we demonstrate a high energy density asymmetric supercapacitor with nickel oxide nanoflake arrays as the cathode and reduced graphene oxide as the anode. Nickel oxide nanoflake arrays were synthesized on a flexible carbon cloth substrate using a seed-mediated hydrothermal method. The reduced graphene oxide sheets were deposited on three-dimensional (3D) nickel foam by hydrothermal treatment of nickel foam in graphene oxide solution. The nanostructured electrodes provide a large effective surface area. The asymmetric supercapacitor device operates with a voltage of 1.7 V and achieved a remarkable areal capacitance of 248 mF cm(-2) (specific capacitance of 50 F g(-1)) at a charge/discharge current density of 1 mA cm(-2) and a maximum energy density of 39.9 W h kg(-1) (based on the total mass of active materials of 5.0 mg). Furthermore, the device showed an excellent charge/discharge cycling performance in 1.0 M KOH electrolyte at a current density of 5 mA cm(-2), with a capacitance retention of 95% after 3000 cycles.

  9. In-situ sequential laser transfer and laser reduction of graphene oxide films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Papazoglou, S.; Petridis, C.; Kymakis, E.; Kennou, S.; Raptis, Y. S.; Chatzandroulis, S.; Zergioti, I.

    2018-04-01

    Achieving high quality transfer of graphene on selected substrates is a priority in device fabrication, especially where drop-on-demand applications are involved. In this work, we report an in-situ, fast, simple, and one step process that resulted in the reduction, transfer, and fabrication of reduced graphene oxide-based humidity sensors, using picosecond laser pulses. By tuning the laser illumination parameters, we managed to implement the sequential printing and reduction of graphene oxide flakes. The overall process lasted only a few seconds compared to a few hours that our group has previously published. DC current measurements, X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, and Raman Spectroscopy were employed in order to assess the efficiency of our approach. To demonstrate the applicability and the potential of the technique, laser printed reduced graphene oxide humidity sensors with a limit of detection of 1700 ppm are presented. The results demonstrated in this work provide a selective, rapid, and low-cost approach for sequential transfer and photochemical reduction of graphene oxide micro-patterns onto various substrates for flexible electronics and sensor applications.

  10. Ceramic Composite Thin Films

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dikin, Dmitriy A. (Inventor); Nguyen, SonBinh T. (Inventor); Ruoff, Rodney S. (Inventor); Stankovich, Sasha (Inventor)

    2013-01-01

    A ceramic composite thin film or layer includes individual graphene oxide and/or electrically conductive graphene sheets dispersed in a ceramic (e.g. silica) matrix. The thin film or layer can be electrically conductive film or layer depending the amount of graphene sheets present. The composite films or layers are transparent, chemically inert and compatible with both glass and hydrophilic SiOx/silicon substrates. The composite film or layer can be produced by making a suspension of graphene oxide sheet fragments, introducing a silica-precursor or silica to the suspension to form a sol, depositing the sol on a substrate as thin film or layer, at least partially reducing the graphene oxide sheets to conductive graphene sheets, and thermally consolidating the thin film or layer to form a silica matrix in which the graphene oxide and/or graphene sheets are dispersed.

  11. Polymer composites with graphene nanofillers: electrical properties and applications.

    PubMed

    Tjong, Sie Chin

    2014-02-01

    Graphene with extraordinary high elastic modulus and excellent electrical conductivity has good prospects for use as the filler material for fabricating novel polymer composites designed for electrostatic discharge and EMI shielding protection, field emission, gas sensor, and fuel cell applications. Large amounts of graphene oxide (GO) can be obtained by wet chemical oxidation of graphite into a mixture of concentrated sulfuric acid, sodium nitrate and potassium permanganate. Accordingly, carbon atoms in the basal plane and edges of GO are decorated with oxygenated functional groups, forming an electrical insulator. To restore electrical conductivity, chemical reduction or thermal annealing is needed to eliminate oxygenated groups of GO. However, such treatments induce internal defects and remove oxygenated atoms of GO partially. The remnant-oxygenated groups affect electrical conductivity of graphene greatly. Nevertheless, reduced graphene oxide and thermally reduced graphene oxide are sufficiently conductive to form polymer nanocomposites at very low percolation threshold. This review provides the fundamentals and state-of-the-art developments in the fabrication methods and electrical property characterizations as well as the applications of novel graphene/polymer nanocomposites. Particular attention is paid to their processing-structural-electrical property relationships.

  12. Synthesis of reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) using different treatments of Graphene Oxide (GO)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zainuddin, M. F.; Nik Raikhan, N. H.; Othman, N. H.; Abdullah, W. F. H.

    2018-05-01

    In this work, a combined chemical and mechanical method was used for the production of graphene instead of chemical method only. The use of mechanical sonication was to assists exfoliation graphene oxide (GO) besides the used of chemical reagents. Then, the reduction of GO into graphene was carried out using L-ascorbic acid. The effects sonication cause synthesis of GO undergoes peeling graphitic layer and at the same time expose the layer with oxidizing agent. The properties of GO and reduced-graphene oxide (rGO) using various routes were investigated using XRD and FTIR. The main characteristics peak was observed at 7°and 9° for GO prepared using sonication and without sonication, respectively. The decreased of 2-theta degree of GO prepared using sonication indicates that the d-value becomes bigger. Estimation of average diameter rGO (with sonication) was 24.49 nm while rGO (without sonication) was 126.2 nm. The reduction of both GO was then carried out using an environmentally reducing agent, ascorbic acid. It was found that the L-ascorbic acid was effective in removing oxygenated functional groups. The conductivity values obtained for rGO-s was 7640 S/m while rGO-ws was is 678 S/m.

  13. Effect of reducing system on capacitive behavior of reduced graphene oxide film: Application for supercapacitor

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Akbi, Hamdane; Yu, Lei; Wang, Bin

    2015-01-15

    To determine the best chemical reduction of graphene oxide film with hydriodic acid that gives maximum energy and power density, we studied the effect of two reducing systems, hydriodic acid/water and hydriodic acid/acetic acid, on the morphology and electrochemical features of reduced graphene oxide film. Using acetic acid as solvent results in high electrical conductivity (5195 S m{sup −1}), excellent specific capacitance (384 F g{sup −1}) and good cyclic stability (about 98% of its initial response after 4000 cycles). Using water as a solvent, results in an ideal capacitive behavior and excellent cyclic stability (about 6% increase of its initialmore » response after 2100 cycles). - Graphical abstract: The choice of reducing system determines the morphology and structure of the chemically reduced graphene film and, as a result, affects largely the capacitive behavior. - Highlights: • The structure of the graphene film has a pronounced effect on capacitive behavior. • The use of water/HI as reducing system results in an ideal capacitive behavior. • The use of acetic acid/HI as reducing system results in a high specific capacitance.« less

  14. Supernucleation and Orientation of Poly(butylene terephthalate) Crystals in Nanocomposites Containing Highly Reduced Graphene Oxide

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    The ring-opening polymerization of cyclic butylene terephthalate into poly(butylene terephthalate) (pCBT) in the presence of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is an effective method for the preparation of polymer nanocomposites. The inclusion of RGO nanoflakes dramatically affects the crystallization of pCBT, shifting crystallization peak temperature to higher temperatures and, overall, increasing the crystallization rate. This was due to a supernucleating effect caused by RGO, which is maximized by highly reduced graphene oxide. Furthermore, combined analyses by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXS) showed the formation of a thick α-crystalline form pCBT lamellae with a melting point of ∼250 °C, close to the equilibrium melting temperature of pCBT. WAXS also demonstrated the pair orientation of pCBT crystals with RGO nanoflakes, indicating a strong interfacial interaction between the aromatic rings of pCBT and RGO planes, especially with highly reduced graphene oxide. PMID:29296028

  15. Synthesis of porous graphene powder through improved Hummers' method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gupta, Siddhant; Bonageri, Shrilakshmi; Achar, Siddarth Krishnaraja; Menon, Atul; Basavaraja R., J.

    2018-05-01

    Graphene due to its high specific surface area is considered to be a potential adsorbent for air and water purification systems. In this study, graphene was synthesized using the recently developed Improved Hummers' method to achieve a high oxidation rate and thermal treatment of the synthesized graphene was done to increase its pore size and make it more capable for applications in purification systems. Graphite flakes were oxidized to obtain graphene oxide which was then reduced to obtain graphene. The synthesized graphene was then thermally treated at 200 °C for two hours in a muffle furnace to improve its surface properties. The characterization results of graphene oxide and graphene show the presence of many impurities which is inferred to be the result of contaminated water used in the experimentation. The analysis of the characterization results also shows that the thermally treated graphene has more spacing and voids when compared to graphene which makes it a better suit for adsorption of gases such as carbon dioxide.

  16. Graphene growth from reduced graphene oxide by chemical vapour deposition: seeded growth accompanied by restoration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chang, Sung-Jin; Hyun, Moon Seop; Myung, Sung; Kang, Min-A.; Yoo, Jung Ho; Lee, Kyoung G.; Choi, Bong Gill; Cho, Youngji; Lee, Gaehang; Park, Tae Jung

    2016-03-01

    Understanding the underlying mechanisms involved in graphene growth via chemical vapour deposition (CVD) is critical for precise control of the characteristics of graphene. Despite much effort, the actual processes behind graphene synthesis still remain to be elucidated in a large number of aspects. Herein, we report the evolution of graphene properties during in-plane growth of graphene from reduced graphene oxide (RGO) on copper (Cu) via methane CVD. While graphene is laterally grown from RGO flakes on Cu foils up to a few hundred nanometres during CVD process, it shows appreciable improvement in structural quality. The monotonous enhancement of the structural quality of the graphene with increasing length of the graphene growth from RGO suggests that seeded CVD growth of graphene from RGO on Cu surface is accompanied by the restoration of graphitic structure. The finding provides insight into graphene growth and defect reconstruction useful for the production of tailored carbon nanostructures with required properties.

  17. Graphene growth from reduced graphene oxide by chemical vapour deposition: seeded growth accompanied by restoration.

    PubMed

    Chang, Sung-Jin; Hyun, Moon Seop; Myung, Sung; Kang, Min-A; Yoo, Jung Ho; Lee, Kyoung G; Choi, Bong Gill; Cho, Youngji; Lee, Gaehang; Park, Tae Jung

    2016-03-10

    Understanding the underlying mechanisms involved in graphene growth via chemical vapour deposition (CVD) is critical for precise control of the characteristics of graphene. Despite much effort, the actual processes behind graphene synthesis still remain to be elucidated in a large number of aspects. Herein, we report the evolution of graphene properties during in-plane growth of graphene from reduced graphene oxide (RGO) on copper (Cu) via methane CVD. While graphene is laterally grown from RGO flakes on Cu foils up to a few hundred nanometres during CVD process, it shows appreciable improvement in structural quality. The monotonous enhancement of the structural quality of the graphene with increasing length of the graphene growth from RGO suggests that seeded CVD growth of graphene from RGO on Cu surface is accompanied by the restoration of graphitic structure. The finding provides insight into graphene growth and defect reconstruction useful for the production of tailored carbon nanostructures with required properties.

  18. Graphene growth from reduced graphene oxide by chemical vapour deposition: seeded growth accompanied by restoration

    PubMed Central

    Chang, Sung-Jin; Hyun, Moon Seop; Myung, Sung; Kang, Min-A; Yoo, Jung Ho; Lee, Kyoung G.; Choi, Bong Gill; Cho, Youngji; Lee, Gaehang; Park, Tae Jung

    2016-01-01

    Understanding the underlying mechanisms involved in graphene growth via chemical vapour deposition (CVD) is critical for precise control of the characteristics of graphene. Despite much effort, the actual processes behind graphene synthesis still remain to be elucidated in a large number of aspects. Herein, we report the evolution of graphene properties during in-plane growth of graphene from reduced graphene oxide (RGO) on copper (Cu) via methane CVD. While graphene is laterally grown from RGO flakes on Cu foils up to a few hundred nanometres during CVD process, it shows appreciable improvement in structural quality. The monotonous enhancement of the structural quality of the graphene with increasing length of the graphene growth from RGO suggests that seeded CVD growth of graphene from RGO on Cu surface is accompanied by the restoration of graphitic structure. The finding provides insight into graphene growth and defect reconstruction useful for the production of tailored carbon nanostructures with required properties. PMID:26961409

  19. Macroscopic and spectroscopic investigations of the adsorption of nitroaromatic compounds on graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, and graphene nanosheets.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xiaoxiao; Chen, Baoliang

    2015-05-19

    The surface properties and adsorption mechanisms of graphene materials are important for potential environmental applications. The adsorption of m-dinitrobenzene, nitrobenzene, and p-nitrotoluene onto graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and graphene (G) nanosheets was investigated using IR spectroscopy to probe the molecular interactions of graphene materials with nitroaromatic compounds (NACs). The hydrophilic GO displayed the weakest adsorption capability. The adsorption of RGO and G was significantly increased due to the recovery of hydrophobic π-conjugation carbon atoms as active sites. RGO nanosheets, which had more defect sites than did GO or G nanosheets, resulted in the highest adsorption of NACs which was 10-50 times greater than the reported adsorption of carbon nanotubes. Superior adsorption was dominated by various interaction modes including π-π electron donor-acceptor interactions between the π-electron-deficient phenyls of the NACs and the π-electron-rich matrix of the graphene nanosheets, and the charge electrostatic and polar interactions between the defect sites of graphene nanosheets and the -NO2 of the NAC. The charge transfer was initially proved by FTIR that a blue shift of asymmetric -NO2 stretching was observed with a concomitant red shift of symmetric -NO2 stretching after m-dinitrobenzene was adsorbed. The multiple interaction mechanisms of the adsorption of NAC molecule onto flat graphene nanosheets favor the adsorption, detection, and transformation of explosives.

  20. Large-scale synthesis of reduced graphene oxides with uniformly coated polyaniline for supercapacitor applications.

    PubMed

    Salunkhe, Rahul R; Hsu, Shao-Hui; Wu, Kevin C W; Yamauchi, Yusuke

    2014-06-01

    We report an effective route for the preparation of layered reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with uniformly coated polyaniline (PANI) layers. These nanocomposites are synthesized by chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline monomer in the presence of layered rGO. SEM, TEM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy analysis results demonstrated that reduced graphene oxide-polyaniline (rGO-PANI) nanocomposites are successfully synthesized. Because of synergistic effects, rGO-PANI nanocomposites prepared by this approach exhibit excellent capacitive performance with a high specific capacitance of 286 F g(-1) and high cycle reversibility of 94 % after 2000 cycles. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. Study of electrochemical reduced graphene oxide and MnO2 heterostructure for supercapacitor application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jana, S. K.; Rao, V. P.; Banerjee, S.

    2013-02-01

    In this paper we have shown enhanced supercapacitive property of electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) and manganese dioxide (MnO2) based heterostructure over single MnO2 thin film grown by electrochemical deposition on indium tin oxide (ITO). ERGO improves the electrical conduction leading to decrease of the internal resistance of the heterostructure.

  2. Amplified photoacoustic performance and enhanced photothermal stability of reduced graphene oxide coated gold nanorods for sensitive photoacoustic imaging.

    PubMed

    Moon, Hyungwon; Kumar, Dinesh; Kim, Haemin; Sim, Changbeom; Chang, Jin-Ho; Kim, Jung-Mu; Kim, Hyuncheol; Lim, Dong-Kwon

    2015-03-24

    We report a strongly amplified photoacoustic (PA) performance of the new functional hybrid material composed of reduced graphene oxide and gold nanorods. Due to the excellent NIR light absorption properties of the reduced graphene oxide coated gold nanorods (r-GO-AuNRs) and highly efficient heat transfer process through the reduced graphene oxide layer, r-GO-AuNRs exhibit excellent photothermal stability and significantly higher photoacoustic amplitudes than those of bare-AuNRs, nonreduced graphene oxide coated AuNRs (GO-AuNRs), or silica-coated AuNR, as demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo systems. The linear response of PA amplitude from reduced state controlled GO on AuNR indicates the critical role of GO for a strong photothermal effect of r-GO-AuNRs. Theoretical studies with finite-element-method lab-based simulation reveal that a 4 times higher magnitude of the enhanced electromagnetic field around r-GO-AuNRs can be generated compared with bare AuNRs or GO-AuNRs. Furthermore, the r-GO-AuNRs are expected to be a promising deep-tissue imaging probe because of extraordinarily high PA amplitudes in the 4-11 MHz operating frequency of an ultrasound transducer. Therefore, the r-GO-AuNRs can be a useful imaging probe for highly sensitive photoacoustic images and NIR sensitive therapeutics based on a strong photothermal effect.

  3. An efficient optical-electrochemical dual probe for highly sensitive recognition of dopamine based on terbium complex functionalized reduced graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Zhan; Wang, Qianming

    2014-04-01

    A novel organic-inorganic hybrid sensor based on diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) modified reduced graphene oxide (RGO-DTPA) chelated with terbium ions allows detection of dopamine (DA) through an emission enhancement effect. Its luminescence, peaking at 545 nm, has been improved by a factor of 25 in the presence of DA (detection limit = 80 nM). In addition, this covalently bonded terbium complex functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO-DTPA-Tb) can be successfully assembled on a glassy carbon electrode. The assay performed through differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) yielded obvious peak separation between DA and excessive amounts of the interfering ascorbic acid (AA).A novel organic-inorganic hybrid sensor based on diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) modified reduced graphene oxide (RGO-DTPA) chelated with terbium ions allows detection of dopamine (DA) through an emission enhancement effect. Its luminescence, peaking at 545 nm, has been improved by a factor of 25 in the presence of DA (detection limit = 80 nM). In addition, this covalently bonded terbium complex functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO-DTPA-Tb) can be successfully assembled on a glassy carbon electrode. The assay performed through differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) yielded obvious peak separation between DA and excessive amounts of the interfering ascorbic acid (AA). Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06156f

  4. Reduced graphene oxide supported gold nanoparticles for electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saquib, Mohammad; Halder, Aditi

    2018-02-01

    Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide is one of the methods which have the capability to recycle CO2 into valuable products for energy and industrial applications. This research article describes about a new electrocatalyst "reduced graphene oxide supported gold nanoparticles" for selective electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide. The main aim for conversion of CO2 to CO lies in the fact that the latter is an important component of syn gas (a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide), which is then converted into liquid fuel via well-known industrial process called Fischer-Tropsch process. In this work, we have synthesized different composites of the gold nanoparticles supported on defective reduced graphene oxide to evaluate the catalytic activity of reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-supported gold nanoparticles and the role of defective RGO support towards the electrochemical reduction of CO2. Electrochemical and impedance measurements demonstrate that higher concentration of gold nanoparticles on the graphene support led to remarkable decrease in the onset potential of 240 mV and increase in the current density for CO2 reduction. Lower impedance and Tafel slope values also clearly support our findings for the better performance of RGOAu than bare Au for CO2 reduction.

  5. Fabrication of graphene oxide-modified chitosan for controlled release of dexamethasone phosphate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Huanghui; Zhang, Lingfan; Xia, Wei; Chen, Linxiao; Xu, Zhizhen; Zhang, Wenqing

    2016-07-01

    Functionalized graphene oxide with its unique physical and chemical properties is widely applied in biomaterials, especially in drug carrier materials. In the past few years, a number of different drugs have been loaded on functionalized graphene oxide via π-π stacking and hydrophobic interactions. The present report described a new approach, dexamethasone phosphate successfully loaded onto graphene oxide-chitosan nanocomposites as drug carrier materials by covalent bonding of phosphate ester linkage. Compared with the graphene oxide-chitosan nanocomposites that dexamethasone phosphate was loaded on via simple physical attachment, covalently linked composites as drug carrier materials were more biocompatible which effectively reduced the burst release of drug, and controlled the release of drug in different pH conditions.

  6. Cu-rGO subsurface layer creation on copper substrate and its resistance to oxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pietrzak, Katarzyna; Strojny-Nędza, Agata; Olesińska, Wiesława; Bańkowska, Anna; Gładki, Andrzej

    2017-11-01

    On the basis of a specially designed experiment, this paper presents a model, which is an attempt to explain the mechanism of formatting and creating oxidation resistance of Cu-rGO subsurface layers. Practically zero chemical affinity of copper to carbon is a fundamental difficulty in creating composite structures of Cu-C, properties which are theoretically possible to estimate. In order to bind the thermally reduced graphene oxide with copper surface, the effect of structural rebuilding of the copper oxide, in the process of annealing in a nitrogen atmosphere, have been used. On intentionally oxidized and anoxic copper substrates the dispersed graphene oxide (GO) and thermally reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were loaded. Annealing processes after the binding effects of both graphene oxide forms to Cu substrates were tested. The methods for high-resolution electron microscopy were found subsurface rGO-Cu layer having a substantially greater resistance to oxidation than pure copper. The mechanism for the effective resistance to oxidation of the Cu-rGO has been presented in a hypothetical form.

  7. Peroxide induced tin oxide coating of graphene oxide at room temperature and its application for lithium ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Sladkevich, S; Gun, J; Prikhodchenko, P V; Gutkin, V; Mikhaylov, A A; Novotortsev, V M; Zhu, J X; Yang, D; Hng, H H; Tay, Y Y; Tsakadze, Z; Lev, O

    2012-12-07

    We describe a new, simple and low-temperature method for ultra-thin coating of graphene oxide (GO) by peroxostannate, tin oxide or a mixture of tin and tin oxide crystallites by different treatments. The technique is environmentally friendly and does not require complicated infrastructure, an autoclave or a microwave. The supported peroxostannate phase is partially converted after drying to crystalline tin oxide with average, 2.5 nm cassiterite crystals. Mild heat treatment yielded full coverage of the reduced graphene oxide by crystalline tin oxide. Extensive heat treatment in vacuum at >500 °C yielded a mixture of elemental tin and cassiterite tin oxide nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The usefulness of the new approach was demonstrated by the preparation of two types of lithium ion anodes: tin oxide-rGO and a mixture of tin oxide and tin coated rGO composites (SnO(2)-Sn-rGO). The electrodes exhibited stable charge/discharge cyclability and high charging capacity due to the intimate contact between the conductive graphene and the very small tin oxide crystallites. The charging/discharging capacity of the anodes exceeded the theoretical capacity predicted based on tin lithiation. The tin oxide coated rGO exhibited higher charging capacity but somewhat lower stability upon extended charge/discharge cycling compared to SnO(2)-Sn-rGO.

  8. Reduced TiO2-Graphene Oxide Heterostructure As Broad Spectrum-Driven Efficient Water-Splitting Photocatalysts.

    PubMed

    Li, Lihua; Yu, Lili; Lin, Zhaoyong; Yang, Guowei

    2016-04-06

    The reduced TiO2-graphene oxide heterostructure as an alternative broad spectrum-driven efficient water splitting photocatalyst has become a really interesting topic, however, its syntheses has many flaws, e.g., tedious experimental steps, time-consuming, small scale production, and requirement of various additives, for example, hydrazine hydrate is widely used as reductant to the reduction of graphene oxide, which is high toxicity and easy to cause the second pollution. For these issues, herein, we reported the synthesis of the reduced TiO2-graphene oxide heterostructure by a facile chemical reduction agent-free one-step laser ablation in liquid (LAL) method, which achieves extended optical response range from ultraviolet to visible and composites TiO(2-x) (reduced TiO2) nanoparticle and graphene oxide for promoting charge conducting. 30.64% Ti(3+) content in the reduced TiO2 nanoparticles induces the electronic reconstruction of TiO2, which results in 0.87 eV decrease of the band gap for the visible light absorption. TiO(2-x)-graphene oxide heterostructure achieved drastically increased photocatalytic H2 production rate, up to 23 times with respect to the blank experiment. Furthermore, a maximum H2 production rate was measured to be 16 mmol/h/g using Pt as a cocatalyst under the simulated sunlight irradiation (AM 1.5G, 135 mW/cm(2)), the quantum efficiencies were measured to be 5.15% for wavelength λ = 365 ± 10 nm and 1.84% for λ = 405 ± 10 nm, and overall solar energy conversion efficiency was measured to be 14.3%. These findings provided new insights into the broad applicability of this methodology for accessing fascinate photocatalysts.

  9. The Origin of Hierarchical Structure in Self-Assembled Graphene Oxide Papers and the Effect on Mechanical Properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nandy, Krishanu

    The quest for new materials with ever improving properties has motivated interest in bulk nanostructured materials. Graphene, a two-dimensional sheet of hexagonally arranged carbon atoms, has been of particular interest given its exceptional mechanical, thermal, optical and electrical properties. Graphene oxide is a chemically modified form of graphene in which the honeycomb lattice of carbon atoms is decorated with oxygen bearing functional groups. Graphene oxide represents a facile route for the production of large quantities of graphene based materials, is stable in aqueous and polar organic solvents and has the potential for further chemical modification. In this dissertation, the origin and influence of hierarchical structure on the mechanical properties of graphene oxide paper and graphene oxide paper based materials has been investigated. Free-standing papers derived from graphene oxide are of interest as structural materials due to their impressive mechanical properties. While studies have investigated the mechanical properties of graphene oxide papers, little is known about the formation mechanism. Using a series of flash-freezing experiments on graphene oxide papers undergoing formation, a stop-motion animation of the fabrication process was obtained. The results explain the origin of the hierarchical nature of graphene oxide papers and provide a method for the tailoring of graphene oxide based materials. An in depth study of fusion of graphene oxide papers demonstrates a simple single-step route for the fabrication of practical materials derived from graphene oxide papers. Fused papers retain the properties of constituent papers allowing for the fabrication of mechanical heterostructures that replicate the hierarchical nature of natural materials. The contribution of the hierarchical nature of graphene oxide papers to the mechanical properties was examined by comparing papers formed by two different mechanisms. The intermediate length scale structures were found to play a key role in yielding tough papers with high failure stress. Finally, efforts to investigate the microstructural mechanisms that govern the mechanical properties of graphene oxide papers by 3D printing of a tensile tester are detailed. It is intended to release the design of the tensile tester to the community in an effort to reduce cost and improve availability of lab equipment.

  10. Co3O4 nanocrystals with exposed low-surface-energy planes anchored on chemically integrated graphitic carbon nitride-modified nitrogen-doped graphene: A high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Wenyao; Fu, Yongsheng; Wang, Xin

    2018-05-01

    A facile strategy to synthesize a composite composed of cubic Co3O4 nanocrystals anchored on chemically integrated g-C3N4-modified N-graphene (CN-NG) as an advanced anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries is reported. It is found that the morphology of the Co3O4 nanocrystals contains blunt-edge nanocubes with well-demarcated boundaries and numerous exposed low-index (1 1 1) crystallographic facets. These planes can be directly involved in the electrochemical reactions, providing rapid Li-ion transport channels for charging and discharging and thus enhancing the round-trip diffusion efficiency. On the other hand, the CN-NG support displays unusual textural features, such as superior structural stability, accessible active sites, and good electrical conductivity. The experimental results reveal that the chemical and electronic coupling of graphitic carbon nitride and nitrogen-doped graphene synergistically facilitate the anchoring of Co3O4 nanocrystals and prevents their migration. The resulting Co3O4/CN-NG composite exhibits a high specific reversible capacity of up to 1096 mAh g-1 with excellent cycling stability and rate capability. We believe that such a hybrid carbon support could open a new path for applications in electrocatalysis, sensors, supercapacitors, etc., in the near future.

  11. Polypyrrole-polyoxometalate/reduced graphene oxide ternary nanohybrids for flexible, all-solid-state supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yuyun; Han, Min; Tang, Yujia; Bao, Jianchun; Li, Shunli; Lan, Yaqian; Dai, Zhihui

    2015-08-11

    Novel polypyrrole-polyoxometalate/reduced graphene oxide ternary nanohybrids (TNHs) are synthesized via a one-pot redox relay strategy. The TNHs exhibit high areal specific capacitance (2.61 mF cm(-2)), and the fabricated solid device also exhibits good rate capability, excellent flexibility and mechanical stability.

  12. A graphene-based biosensing platform based on the release of DNA probes and rolling circle amplification.

    PubMed

    Liu, Meng; Song, Jinping; Shuang, Shaomin; Dong, Chuan; Brennan, John D; Li, Yingfu

    2014-06-24

    We report a versatile biosensing platform capable of achieving ultrasensitive detection of both small-molecule and macromolecular targets. The system features three components: reduced graphene oxide for its ability to adsorb single-stranded DNA molecules nonspecifically, DNA aptamers for their ability to bind reduced graphene oxide but undergo target-induced conformational changes that facilitate their release from the reduced graphene oxide surface, and rolling circle amplification (RCA) for its ability to amplify a primer-template recognition event into repetitive sequence units that can be easily detected. The key to the design is the tagging of a short primer to an aptamer sequence, which results in a small DNA probe that allows for both effective probe adsorption onto the reduced graphene oxide surface to mask the primer domain in the absence of the target, as well as efficient probe release in the presence of the target to make the primer available for template binding and RCA. We also made an observation that the circular template, which on its own does not cause a detectable level of probe release from the reduced graphene oxide, augments target-induced probe release. The synergistic release of DNA probes is interpreted to be a contributing factor for the high detection sensitivity. The broad utility of the platform is illustrated though engineering three different sensors that are capable of achieving ultrasensitive detection of a protein target, a DNA sequence and a small-molecule analyte. We envision that the approach described herein will find useful applications in the biological, medical, and environmental fields.

  13. Investigation on photoluminescence emission of (reduced) graphene oxide paper

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ding, J. J.; Chen, H. X.; Feng, D. Q.; Fu, H. W.

    2018-01-01

    In order to contrastively investigate optical properties of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) paper, GO is prepared by improved Hummer method and controlled reduced using hydration hydrazine to obtain good dispersive rGO in organic solvent. Finally, GO and rGO paper are obtained by vacuum filtration method. Samples morphology and optical properties are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, Raman spectra, absorbance spectra and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. Results indicate that there are large numbers of localized states in both GO and rGO paper, and optical gaps of two samples are 0.62 eV. In PL spectra of GO paper, we observe three emission peaks at 565, 578 and 608 nm, respectively whose intensity decreases evidently after reduced, which is due to the decrease of oxide functionalized groups and expansion of sp2 clusters. PL emission will gradually decrease during GO are reduced.

  14. Uniformly Dispersed ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles on Nitrogen-Modified Graphene for High-Performance Supercapacitor as Electrode.

    PubMed

    Li, Lei; Bi, Huiting; Gai, Shili; He, Fei; Gao, Peng; Dai, Yunlu; Zhang, Xitian; Yang, Dan; Zhang, Milin; Yang, Piaoping

    2017-02-21

    A facile strategy has been adopted for the preparation of ZnFe 2 O 4 /NRG composite by anchoring ultrasmall ZnFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles on nitrogen-doped reduced graphene (denoted as NRG) for high-performance supercapacitor electrode. Remarkably, the growth of ZnFe 2 O 4 nanocrystals, the reduction of graphitic oxide and the doping of nitrogen to graphene have been simultaneously achieved in one process. It is found that the NRG employed as substrate can not only control the formation of nano-sized ZnFe 2 O 4 , but also guarantee the high dispersion without any agglomeration. Benefiting from this novel combination and construction, the hybrid material has large surface area which can provide high exposure of active sites for easy access of electrolyte and fast electron transport. When served as supercapacitor electrode, the ZnFe 2 O 4 /NRG composite exhibits a favorable specific capacitance of 244 F/g at 0.5 A/g within the potential range from -1 to 0 V, desirable rate stability (retain 131.5 F/g at 10 A/g) and an admirable cycling durability of 83.8% at a scan rate of 100 mV/s after 5000 cycles. When employed as symmetric supercapacitor, the device demonstrates favorable performance. These satisfactory properties of the ZnFe 2 O 4 /NRG composite can make it be of great promise in the supercapacitor application.

  15. Advanced Nanomaterials for High-Efficiency Solar Cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chen, Junhong

    2013-11-29

    Energy supply has arguably become one of the most important problems facing humankind. The exponential demand for energy is evidenced by dwindling fossil fuel supplies and record-high oil and gas prices due to global population growth and economic development. This energy shortage has significant implications to the future of our society, in addition to the greenhouse gas emission burden due to consumption of fossil fuels. Solar energy seems to be the most viable choice to meet our clean energy demand given its large scale and clean/renewable nature. However, existing methods to convert sun light into electricity are not efficient enoughmore » to become a practical alternative to fossil fuels. This DOE project aims to develop advanced hybrid nanomaterials consisting of semiconductor nanoparticles (quantum dots or QDs) supported on graphene for cost-effective solar cells with improved conversion efficiency for harvesting abundant, renewable, clean solar energy to relieve our global energy challenge. Expected outcomes of the project include new methods for low-cost manufacturing of hybrid nanostructures, systematic understanding of their properties that can be tailored for desired applications, and novel photovoltaic cells. Through this project, we have successfully synthesized a number of novel nanomaterials, including vertically-oriented graphene (VG) sheets, three-dimensional (3D) carbon nanostructures comprising few-layer graphene (FLG) sheets inherently connected with CNTs through sp{sup 2} carbons, crumpled graphene (CG)-nanocrystal hybrids, CdSe nanoparticles (NPs), CdS NPs, nanohybrids of metal nitride decorated on nitrogen-doped graphene (NG), QD-carbon nanotube (CNT) and QD-VG-CNT structures, TiO{sub 2}-CdS NPs, and reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-SnO{sub 2} NPs. We further assembled CdSe NPs onto graphene sheets and investigated physical and electronic interactions between CdSe NPs and the graphene. Finally we have demonstrated various applications of these nanomaterials in solar cells (both as photoanodes and counter electrodes), gas sensors, and energy storage devices. This research is potentially transformative since the availability of affordable hybrid nanostructures and their fundamental properties will enable various innovative applications of the multifunctional hybrid nanostructures and thus will accelerate new discoveries and inventions in nanoscience and nanotechnology.« less

  16. High-Quality Reduced Graphene Oxide by a Dual-Function Chemical Reduction and Healing Process

    PubMed Central

    Some, Surajit; Kim, Youngmin; Yoon, Yeoheung; Yoo, HeeJoun; Lee, Saemi; Park, Younghun; Lee, Hyoyoung

    2013-01-01

    A new chemical dual-functional reducing agent, thiophene, was used to produce high-quality reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as a result of a chemical reduction of graphene oxide (GO) and the healing of rGO. Thiophene reduced GO by donation of electrons with acceptance of oxygen while it was converted into an intermediate oxidised polymerised thiophene that was eventually transformed into polyhydrocarbon by loss of sulphur atoms. Surprisingly, the polyhydrocarbon template helped to produce good-quality rGOC (chemically reduced) and high-quality rGOCT after thermal treatment. The resulting rGOCT nanosheets did not contain any nitrogen or sulphur impurities, were highly deoxygenated and showed a healing effect. Thus the electrical properties of the as-prepared rGOCT were superior to those of conventional hydrazine-produced rGO that require harsh reaction conditions. Our novel dual reduction and healing method with thiophene could potentially save energy and facilitate the commercial mass production of high-quality graphene. PMID:23722643

  17. Development and characterization of reduced graphene oxide films for transient electronics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sheikh, Rasel; Bhatkar, Omkar; Smith, David; Rizvi, Reza

    2018-03-01

    Emerging interests in hardware security as well as environmental concerns have given rise to the field of transient or temporary electronics, which can be decommissioned by an external stimulus with minimal impact to the surrounding environment. In this study, an all graphene based film is produced by a one-step deposition process. The conversion of graphene oxide (GO) to reduced graphene oxide (rGO) depends on an interfacial reduction reaction. Control of processing conditions such as the underlying substrate, pH of GO and the film drying environment results in an ability to tailor the internal architecture of the films and their electronic properties. Furthermore, the ability to create masks for selective reduction of GO during deposition was also demonstrated, which was used to create intricate yet well-defined patterns and connections required in electronic circuits and devices. All graphene based freestanding films with selectively reduced GO were used in transient electronics application as circuitry and RFID tag patterns.

  18. A three-dimensional interpenetrating electrode of reduced graphene oxide for selective detection of dopamine.

    PubMed

    Yu, Xiaowen; Sheng, Kaixuan; Shi, Gaoquan

    2014-09-21

    Electrochemical detection of dopamine plays an important role in medical diagnosis. In this paper, we report a three-dimensional (3D) interpenetrating graphene electrode fabricated by electrochemical reduction of graphene oxide for selective detection of dopamine. This electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ErGO) electrode was used directly without further functionalization or blending with other functional materials. This electrode can efficiently lower the oxidation potential of ascorbic acid; thus, it is able to selectively detect dopamine in the presence of ascorbic acid and uric acid. The ErGO-based biosensor exhibited a linear response towards dopamine in the concentration range of 0.1-10 μM with a low detection limit of 0.1 μM. Furthermore, this electrode has good reproducibility and environmental stability, and can be used to analyse real samples.

  19. Corrosion study of the graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide-based epoxy coatings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ghauri, Faizan Ali; Raza, Mohsin Ali; Saad Baig, Muhammad; Ibrahim, Shoaib

    2017-12-01

    This work aims to determine the effect of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) incorporation as filler on the corrosion protection ability of epoxy coatings in saline media. GO was derived from graphite powder following modified Hummers’ method, whereas rGO was obtained after reduction of GO with hydrazine solution. About 1 wt.% of GO or rGO were incorporated in epoxy resin by solution mixing process followed by ball milling. GO and rGO-based epoxy composite coatings were coated on mild steel substrates using film coater. The coated samples were characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization tests after 1 and 24 h immersion in 3.5% NaCl. The results suggested that GO-based epoxy composite coatings showed high impedance and low corrosion rate.

  20. Superior lithium storage performance using sequentially stacked MnO2/reduced graphene oxide composite electrodes.

    PubMed

    Kim, Sue Jin; Yun, Young Jun; Kim, Ki Woong; Chae, Changju; Jeong, Sunho; Kang, Yongku; Choi, Si-Young; Lee, Sun Sook; Choi, Sungho

    2015-04-24

    Hybrid nanostructures based on graphene and metal oxides hold great potential for use in high-performance electrode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. Herein, a new strategy to fabricate sequentially stacked α-MnO2 /reduced graphene oxide composites driven by surface-charge-induced mutual electrostatic interactions is proposed. The resultant composite anode exhibits an excellent reversible charge/discharge capacity as high as 1100 mA h g(-1) without any traceable capacity fading, even after 100 cycles, which leads to a high rate capability electrode performance for lithium ion batteries. Thus, the proposed synthetic procedures guarantee a synergistic effect of multidimensional nanoscale media between one (metal oxide nanowire) and two dimensions (graphene sheet) for superior energy-storage electrodes. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. High content reduced graphene oxide reinforced copper with a bioinspired nano-laminated structure and large recoverable deformation ability

    PubMed Central

    Xiong, Ding-Bang; Cao, Mu; Guo, Qiang; Tan, Zhanqiu; Fan, Genlian; Li, Zhiqiang; Zhang, Di

    2016-01-01

    By using CuO/graphene-oxide/CuO sandwich-like nanosheets as the building blocks, bulk nacre-inspired copper matrix nano-laminated composite reinforced by molecular-level dispersed and ordered reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with content as high as ∼45 vol% was fabricated via a combined process of assembly, reduction and consolidation. Thanks to nanoconfinement effect, reinforcing effect, as well as architecture effect, the nanocomposite shows increased specific strength and at least one order of magnitude greater recoverable deformation ability as compared with monolithic Cu matrix. PMID:27647264

  2. Simple approach for high-contrast optical imaging and characterization of graphene-based sheets.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jung, I.; Pelton, M.; Piner, R.

    2007-12-01

    A simple optical method is presented for identifying and measuring the effective optical properties of nanometer-thick, graphene-based materials, based on the use of substrates consisting of a thin dielectric layer on silicon. High contrast between the graphene-based materials and the substrate is obtained by choosing appropriate optical properties and thickness of the dielectric layer. The effective refractive index and optical absorption coefficient of graphene oxide, thermally reduced graphene oxide, and graphene are obtained by comparing the predicted and measured contrasts.

  3. An efficient optical-electrochemical dual probe for highly sensitive recognition of dopamine based on terbium complex functionalized reduced graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Zhan; Wang, Qianming

    2014-05-07

    A novel organic-inorganic hybrid sensor based on diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) modified reduced graphene oxide (RGO-DTPA) chelated with terbium ions allows detection of dopamine (DA) through an emission enhancement effect. Its luminescence, peaking at 545 nm, has been improved by a factor of 25 in the presence of DA (detection limit = 80 nM). In addition, this covalently bonded terbium complex functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO-DTPA-Tb) can be successfully assembled on a glassy carbon electrode. The assay performed through differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) yielded obvious peak separation between DA and excessive amounts of the interfering ascorbic acid (AA).

  4. Green reduction of graphene oxide by ascorbic acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khosroshahi, Zahra; Kharaziha, Mahshid; Karimzadeh, Fathallah; Allafchian, Alireza

    2018-01-01

    Graphene, a single layer of sp2-hybridized carbon atoms in a hexagonal (two-dimensional honey-comb) lattice, has attracted strong scientific and technological interest due to its novel and excellent optical, chemical, electrical, mechanical and thermal properties. The solution-processable chemical reduction of Graphene oxide (GO is considered as the most favorable method regarding mass production of graphene. Generally, the reduction of GO is carried out by chemical approaches using different reductants such as hydrazine and sodium borohydride. These components are corrosive, combustible and highly toxic which may be dangerous for personnel health and the environment. Hence, these reducing agents are not promising choice for reducing of graphene oxide (GO). As a consequence, it is necessary for further development and optimization of eco-friendly, natural reducing agent for clean and effective reduction of GO. Ascorbic acid, an eco-friendly and natural reducing agents, having a mild reductive ability and nontoxic property. So, the aim of this research was to green synthesis of GO with ascorbic acid. For this purpose, the required amount of NaOH and ascorbic acid were added to GO solution (0.5 mg/ml) and were heated at 95 °C for 1 hour. According to the X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electrochemical results, GO were reduced with ascorbic acid like hydrazine with better electrochemical properties and ascorbic acid is an ideal substitute for hydrazine in the reduction of graphene oxide process.

  5. Amperometric Determination of Ascorbic Acid in Pharmaceutical Formulations by a Reduced Graphene Oxide-cobalt Hexacyanoferrate Nanocomposite

    PubMed Central

    Heli, Hossein

    2015-01-01

    Investigation of the redox properties of drugs and their determination are performed by electrochemical techniques. Data obtained from electrochemical techniques are often correlated with molecular structure and pharmacological activity of drugs. In this regard, different modified electrodes were applied as sensors for quantification of different drugs. A nanocomposite of reduced graphene oxide-cobalt hexacyanoferrate was synthesized by a simple precipitation route. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the nanocomposite comprised nanoparticles of cobalt hexacyanoferrate attached to the reduced graphene oxide nanosheets. A nanocomposite-modified carbon paste electrode was then fabricated. It represented prominent activity toward the electrocatalytic oxidation of ascorbic acid, and the kinetics of the electrooxidation process was evaluated. Finally, an amperometric method was developed for the quantification of ascorbic acid in different pharmaceutical formulations. PMID:25901152

  6. One-pot synthesis of SnO{sub 2}/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite in ionic liquid-based solution and its application for lithium ion batteries

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gu, Changdong, E-mail: cdgu@zju.edu.cn; Zhang, Heng; Wang, Xiuli

    2013-10-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • A facile and low-temperature method is developed for SnO{sub 2}/graphene composite. • Synthesis performed in a choline chloride-based ionic liquid. • The composite shows an enhanced cycling stability as anode for Li-ion batteries. • 4 nm SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles mono-dispersed on the surface of reduced graphene oxide. - Abstract: A facile and low-temperature method is developed for SnO{sub 2}/graphene composite which involves an ultrasonic-assistant oxidation–reduction reaction between Sn{sup 2+} and graphene oxide in a choline chloride–ethylene glycol based ionic liquid under ambient conditions. The reaction solution is non-corrosive and environmental-friendly. Moreover, the proposed technique doesmore » not require complicated infrastructures and heat treatment. The SnO{sub 2}/graphene composite consists of about 4 nm sized SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles with cassiterite structure mono-dispersed on the surface of reduced graphene oxide. As anode for lithium-ion batteries, the SnO{sub 2}/graphene composite shows a satisfying cycling stability (535 mAh g{sup −1} after 50 cycles @100 mA g{sup −1}), which is significantly prior to the bare 4 nm sized SnO{sub 2} nanocrsytals. The graphene sheets in the hybrid nanostructure could provide a segmentation effect to alleviate the volume expansion of the SnO{sub 2} and restrain the small and active Sn-based particles aggregating into larger and inactive clusters during cycling.« less

  7. Dual path mechanism in the thermal reduction of graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Larciprete, Rosanna; Fabris, Stefano; Sun, Tao; Lacovig, Paolo; Baraldi, Alessandro; Lizzit, Silvano

    2011-11-02

    Graphene is easily produced by thermally reducing graphene oxide. However, defect formation in the C network during deoxygenation compromises the charge carrier mobility in the reduced material. Understanding the mechanisms of the thermal reactions is essential for defining alternative routes able to limit the density of defects generated by carbon evolution. Here, we identify a dual path mechanism in the thermal reduction of graphene oxide driven by the oxygen coverage: at low surface density, the O atoms adsorbed as epoxy groups evolve as O(2) leaving the C network unmodified. At higher coverage, the formation of other O-containing species opens competing reaction channels, which consume the C backbone. We combined spectroscopic tools and ab initio calculations to probe the species residing on the surface and those released in the gas phase during heating and to identify reaction pathways and rate-limiting steps. Our results illuminate the current puzzling scenario of the low temperature gasification of graphene oxide.

  8. Charge transport in metal oxide nanocrystal-based materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Runnerstrom, Evan Lars

    There is probably no class of materials more varied, more widely used, or more ubiquitous than metal oxides. Depending on their composition, metal oxides can exhibit almost any number of properties. Of particular interest are the ways in which charge is transported in metal oxides: devices such as displays, touch screens, and smart windows rely on the ability of certain metal oxides to conduct electricity while maintaining visible transparency. Smart windows, fuel cells, and other electrochemical devices additionally rely on efficient transport of ionic charge in and around metal oxides. Colloidal synthesis has enabled metal oxide nanocrystals to emerge as a relatively new but highly tunable class of materials. Certain metal oxide nanocrystals, particularly highly doped metal oxides, have been enjoying rapid development in the last decade. As in myriad other materials systems, structure dictates the properties of metal oxide nanocrystals, but a full understanding of how nanocrystal synthesis, the processing of nanocrystal-based materials, and the structure of nanocrystals relate to the resulting properties of nanocrystal-based materials is still nascent. Gaining a fundamental understanding of and control over these structure-property relationships is crucial to developing a holistic understanding of metal oxide nanocrystals. The unique ability to tune metal oxide nanocrystals by changing composition through the introduction of dopants or by changing size and shape affords a way to study the interplay between structure, processing, and properties. This overall goal of this work is to chemically synthesize colloidal metal oxide nanocrystals, process them into useful materials, characterize charge transport in materials based on colloidal metal oxide nanocrystals, and develop ways to manipulate charge transport. In particular, this dissertation characterizes how the charge transport properties of metal oxide nanocrystal-based materials depend on their processing and structure. Charge transport can obviously be taken to mean the conduction of electrons, but it also refers to the motion of ions, such as lithium ions and protons. In many cases, the transport of ions is married to the motion of electrons as well, either through an external electrical circuit, or within the same material in the case of mixed ionic electronic conductors. The collective motion of electrons over short length scales, that is, within single nanocrystals, is also a subject of study as it pertains to plasmonic nanocrystals. Finally, charge transport can also be coupled to or result from the formation of defects in metal oxides. All of these modes of charge transport in metal oxides gain further complexity when considered in nanocrystalline systems, where the introduction of numerous surfaces can change the character of charge transport relative to bulk systems, providing opportunities to exploit new physical phenomena. Part I of this dissertation explores the combination of electronic and ionic transport in electrochromic devices based on nanocrystals. Colloidal chemistry and solution processing are used to fabricate nanocomposites based on electrochromic tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) nanocrystals. The nanocomposites, which are completely synthesized using solution processing, consist of ITO nanocrystals and lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide (LiTFSI) salt dispersed in a lithium ion-conducting polymer matrix of either poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) or poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). ITO nanocrystals are prepared by colloidal synthetic methods and the nanocrystal surface chemistry is modified to achieve favorable nanocrystal-polymer interactions. Homogeneous solutions containing polymer, ITO nanocrystals, and lithium salt are thus prepared and deposited by spin casting. Characterization by DC electronic measurements, microscopy, and x-ray scattering techniques show that the ITO nanocrystals form a complete, connected electrode within a polymer electrolyte matrix, and that the morphology and properties of the nanocomposites can be manipulated by changing the chemical composition of the deposition solution. Careful application of AC impedance spectroscopy techniques and DC measurements are used to show that the nanocomposites exhibit mixed ionic and electronic conductivity, where electronic charge is transported through the ITO nanocrystal phase, and ionic charge is transported through the polymer matrix phase. The synthetic methods developed here and understanding of charge transport ultimately lead to the fabrication of a solid state nanocomposite electrochromic device based on nanocrystals of ITO and cerium oxide. Part II of this dissertation considers electron transport within individual metal oxide nanocrystals themselves. It primarily examines relationships between synthetic chemistry, doping mechanisms in metal oxides, and the accompanying physics of free carrier scattering within the interior of highly doped metal oxide nanocrystals, with particular mind paid to ITO nanocrystals. Additionally, synthetic methods as well as metal oxide defect chemistry influences the balance between activation and compensation of dopants, which limits the nanocrystals' free carrier concentration. Furthermore, because of ionized impurity scattering of the oscillating electrons by dopant ions, scattering must be treated in a fundamentally different way in semiconductor metal oxide materials when compared with conventional metals. (Abstract shortened by ProQuest.).

  9. Photoelectrochemical Properties of Graphene and Its Derivatives

    PubMed Central

    Adán-Más, Alberto; Wei, Di

    2013-01-01

    Graphene and its derivatives combine a numerous range of supreme properties that can be useful in many applications. The purpose of this review is to analyse the photoelectrochemical properties of pristine graphene, graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and their impact on semiconductor catalysts/quantum dots. The mechanism that this group of materials follows to improve their performance will be cleared by explaining how those properties can be exploited in several applications such as photo-catalysts (degradation of pollutants) and photovoltaics (solar cells). PMID:28348339

  10. Highly hydrogenated graphene via active hydrogen reduction of graphene oxide in the aqueous phase at room temperature.

    PubMed

    Sofer, Zdeněk; Jankovský, Ondřej; Šimek, Petr; Soferová, Lýdie; Sedmidubský, David; Pumera, Martin

    2014-02-21

    Hydrogenated graphene and graphane are in the forefront of graphene research. Hydrogenated graphene is expected to exhibit ferromagnetism, tunable band gap, fluorescence, and high thermal and low electrical conductivity. Currently available techniques for fabrication of highly hydrogenated graphene use either a liquid ammonia (-33 °C) reduction pathway using alkali metals or plasma low pressure or ultra high pressure hydrogenation. These methods are either technically challenging or pose inherent risks. Here we wish to demonstrate that highly hydrogenated graphene can be prepared at room temperature in the aqueous phase by reduction of graphene oxide by nascent hydrogen generated by dissolution of metal in acid. Nascent hydrogen is known to be a strong reducing agent. We studied the influence of metal involved in nascent hydrogen generation and characterized the samples in detail. The resulting reduced graphenes and hydrogenated graphenes were characterized in detail. The resulting hydrogenated graphene had the chemical formula C1.16H1O0.66. Such simple hydrogenation of graphene is of high importance for large scale safe synthesis of hydrogenated graphene.

  11. Improved performances of β-Ni(OH)2@reduced-graphene-oxide in Ni-MH and Li-ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Li, Baojun; Cao, Huaqiang; Shao, Jin; Zheng, He; Lu, Yuexiang; Yin, Jiefu; Qu, Meizhen

    2011-03-21

    Incorporation of reduced graphene oxide into β-Ni(OH)(2) presents high performances with specific discharge capacity of 283 mA hg(-1) after 50 cycles in Ni-MH batteries, and 507 mA hg(-1) after 30 cycles in Li ion batteries.

  12. Integrated Ternary Bioinspired Nanocomposites via Synergistic Toughening of Reduced Graphene Oxide and Double-Walled Carbon Nanotubes.

    PubMed

    Gong, Shanshan; Cui, Wei; Zhang, Qi; Cao, Anyuan; Jiang, Lei; Cheng, Qunfeng

    2015-12-22

    With its synergistic toughening effect and hierarchical micro/nanoscale structure, natural nacre sets a "gold standard" for nacre-inspired materials with integrated high strength and toughness. We demonstrated strong and tough ternary bioinspired nanocomposites through synergistic toughening of reduced graphene oxide and double-walled carbon nanotube (DWNT) and covalent bonding. The tensile strength and toughness of this kind of ternary bioinspired nanocomposites reaches 374.1 ± 22.8 MPa and 9.2 ± 0.8 MJ/m(3), which is 2.6 and 3.3 times that of pure reduced graphene oxide film, respectively. Furthermore, this ternary bioinspired nanocomposite has a high conductivity of 394.0 ± 6.8 S/cm and also shows excellent fatigue-resistant properties, which may enable this material to be used in aerospace, flexible energy devices, and artificial muscle. The synergistic building blocks with covalent bonding for constructing ternary bioinspired nanocomposites can serve as the basis of a strategy for the construction of integrated, high-performance, reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-based nanocomposites in the future.

  13. On the behavior of reduced graphene oxide based electrodes coated with dispersed platinum by alternate current methods in the electrochemical degradation of reactive dyes.

    PubMed

    Del Río, A I; García, C; Molina, J; Fernández, J; Bonastre, J; Cases, F

    2017-09-01

    The electrochemical behavior of different carbon-based electrodes with and without nanoparticles of platinum electrochemically dispersed on their surface has been studied. Among others, reduced graphene oxide based electrodes was used to determine the best conditions for the decolorization/degradation of the reactive dye C.I. Reactive Orange 4 in sulfuric medium. Firstly, the electrochemical behavior was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry. Secondly, different electrolyses were performed using two cell configurations: cell with anodic and cathodic compartments separated (divided configuration) and without any separation (undivided configuration). The best results were obtained when reduced graphene oxide based anodes were used. The degree of decolorization was monitored by spectroscopic methods and high performance liquid chromatography. It was found that all of them followed pseudo-first order kinetics. When reduced graphene oxide-based electrodes coated with dispersed platinum by alternate current methods electrodes were used, the lowest energy consumption and the higher decolorization kinetics rate were obtained. Scanning Electronic Microscopy was used to observe the morphological surface differences. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Fabrication and characterization of graphene hydrogel via hydrothermal approach as a scaffold for preliminary study of cell growth

    PubMed Central

    Lim, HN; Huang, NM; Lim, SS; Harrison, I; Chia, CH

    2011-01-01

    Background Three-dimensional assembly of graphene hydrogel is rapidly attracting the interest of researchers because of its wide range of applications in energy storage, electronics, electrochemistry, and waste water treatment. Information on the use of graphene hydrogel for biological purposes is lacking, so we conducted a preliminary study to determine the suitability of graphene hydrogel as a substrate for cell growth, which could potentially be used as building blocks for biomolecules and tissue engineering applications. Methods A three-dimensional structure of graphene hydrogel was prepared via a simple hydrothermal method using two-dimensional large-area graphene oxide nanosheets as a precursor. Results The concentration and lateral size of the graphene oxide nanosheets influenced the structure of the hydrogel. With larger-area graphene oxide nanosheets, the graphene hydrogel could be formed at a lower concentration. X-ray diffraction patterns revealed that the oxide functional groups on the graphene oxide nanosheets were reduced after hydrothermal treatment. The three-dimensional graphene hydrogel matrix was used as a scaffold for proliferation of a MG63 cell line. Conclusion Guided filopodia protrusions of MG63 on the hydrogel were observed on the third day of cell culture, demonstrating compatibility of the graphene hydrogel structure for bioapplications. PMID:21931479

  15. Silver nanoparticle decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheet: a platform for SERS based low-level detection of uranyl ion.

    PubMed

    Dutta, Soumen; Ray, Chaiti; Sarkar, Sougata; Pradhan, Mukul; Negishi, Yuichi; Pal, Tarasankar

    2013-09-11

    Herein, a simple wet-chemical pathway has been demonstrated for the synthesis of silver nanoparticle conjugated reduced graphene oxide nanosheets where dimethylformamide (DMF) is judiciously employed as an efficient reducing agent. Altogether, DMF reduces both silver nitrate (AgNO3) and graphene oxide (GO) in the reaction mixture. Additionally, the presence of polyvinylpyrolidone (PVP) assists the nanophasic growth and homogeneous distribution of the plasmonic nanoparticle Ag(0). Reduction of graphene oxide and the presence of aggregated Ag NPs on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets are confirmed from various spectroscopic techniques. Finally, the composite material has been exploited as an intriguing platform for surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based selective detection of uranyl (UO2(2+)) ion. The limit of detection has been achieved to be as low as 10 nM. Here the normal Raman spectral (NRS) band of uranyl acetate (UAc) at 838 cm(-1) shifts to 714 and 730 cm(-1) as SERS bands for pH 5.0 and 12.0, respectively. This distinguished Raman shift of the symmetric stretching mode for UO2(2+) ion is indicative of pronounced charge transfer (CT) effect. This CT effect even supports the higher sensitivity of the protocol toward UO2(2+) over other tested oxo-ions. It is anticipated that rGO nanosheets furnish a convenient compartment to favor the interaction between Ag NPs and UO2(2+) ion through proximity induced adsorption even at low concentration.

  16. Wrinkled 2D Materials: A Versatile Platform for Low-Threshold Stretchable Random Lasers.

    PubMed

    Hu, Han-Wen; Haider, Golam; Liao, Yu-Ming; Roy, Pradip Kumar; Ravindranath, Rini; Chang, Huan-Tsung; Lu, Cheng-Hsin; Tseng, Chang-Yang; Lin, Tai-Yung; Shih, Wei-Heng; Chen, Yang-Fang

    2017-11-01

    A stretchable, flexible, and bendable random laser system capable of lasing in a wide range of spectrum will have many potential applications in next- generation technologies, such as visible-spectrum communication, superbright solid-state lighting, biomedical studies, fluorescence, etc. However, producing an appropriate cavity for such a wide spectral range remains a challenge owing to the rigidity of the resonator for the generation of coherent loops. 2D materials with wrinkled structures exhibit superior advantages of high stretchability and a suitable matrix for photon trapping in between the hill and valley geometries compared to their flat counterparts. Here, the intriguing functionalities of wrinkled reduced graphene oxide, single-layer graphene, and few-layer hexagonal boron nitride, respectively, are utilized to design highly stretchable and wearable random laser devices with ultralow threshold. Using methyl-ammonium lead bromide perovskite nanocrystals (PNC) to illustrate the working principle, the lasing threshold is found to be ≈10 µJ cm -2 , about two times less than the lowest value ever reported. In addition to PNC, it is demonstrated that the output lasing wavelength can be tuned using different active materials such as semiconductor quantum dots. Thus, this study is very useful for the future development of high-performance wearable optoelectronic devices. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  17. Electrical resistance behavior of oxyfluorinated graphene under oxidizing and reducing gas exposure.

    PubMed

    Im, Ji Sun; Bae, Tae-Sung; Shin, Eunjeong; Lee, Young-Seak

    2014-03-01

    The electrical resistance behavior of graphene was studied under oxidizing and reducing gas exposure. The graphene surface was modified via oxyfluorination to obtain a specific surface area and oxygen functional groups. Fluorine radicals provided improved pore structure and introduction of an oxygen functional group. A high-performance gas sensor was obtained based on enlarged target gas adsorption sites and an enhanced electron charge transfer between the target gas and carbon surface via improved pore structure and the introduction of oxygen functional groups, respectively.

  18. A spectrally tunable all-graphene-based flexible field-effect light-emitting device

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Xiaomu; Tian, He; Mohammad, Mohammad Ali; Li, Cheng; Wu, Can; Yang, Yi; Ren, Tian-Ling

    2015-07-01

    The continuous tuning of the emission spectrum of a single light-emitting diode (LED) by an external electrical bias is of great technological significance as a crucial property in high-quality displays, yet this capability has not been demonstrated in existing LEDs. Graphene, a tunable optical platform, is a promising medium to achieve this goal. Here we demonstrate a bright spectrally tunable electroluminescence from blue (~450 nm) to red (~750 nm) at the graphene oxide/reduced-graphene oxide interface. We explain the electroluminescence results from the recombination of Poole-Frenkel emission ionized electrons at the localized energy levels arising from semi-reduced graphene oxide, and holes from the top of the π band. Tuning of the emission wavelength is achieved by gate modulation of the participating localized energy levels. Our demonstration of current-driven tunable LEDs not only represents a method for emission wavelength tuning but also may find applications in high-quality displays.

  19. Surfactant-free electrodeposition of reduced graphene oxide/copper composite coatings with enhanced wear resistance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mai, Y. J.; Zhou, M. P.; Ling, H. J.; Chen, F. X.; Lian, W. Q.; Jie, X. H.

    2018-03-01

    How to uniformly disperse graphene sheets into the electrolyte is one of the main challenges to synthesize graphene enhanced nanocomposites by electrodeposition. A surfactant-free colloidal solution comprised of copper (II)-ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid ([CuIIEDTA]2-) complexes and graphene oxide (GO) sheets is proposed to electrodeposit reduced graphene oxide/copper (RGO/Cu) composite coatings. Anionic [CuIIEDTA]2- complexes stably coexist with negatively charged GO sheets due to the electrostatic repulsion between them, facilitating the electrochemical reduction and uniform dispersion of GO sheets into the copper matrix. The RGO/Cu composite coatings are well characterized by XRD, Raman, SEM and XPS. Their tribological behavior as a function of RGO content in composite coatings and normal loads are investigated. Also the chemical composition and topography of the wear tracks for the composite coatings are analyzed to deduce the lubricating and anti-wear mechanism of RGO/Cu composite coatings.

  20. Synthesis of ligand-stabilized metal oxide nanocrystals and epitaxial core/shell nanocrystals via a lower-temperature esterification process.

    PubMed

    Ito, Daisuke; Yokoyama, Shun; Zaikova, Tatiana; Masuko, Keiichiro; Hutchison, James E

    2014-01-28

    The properties of metal oxide nanocrystals can be tuned by incorporating mixtures of matrix metal elements, adding metal ion dopants, or constructing core/shell structures. However, high-temperature conditions required to synthesize these nanocrystals make it difficult to achieve the desired compositions, doping levels, and structural control. We present a lower temperature synthesis of ligand-stabilized metal oxide nanocrystals that produces crystalline, monodisperse nanocrystals at temperatures well below the thermal decomposition point of the precursors. Slow injection (0.2 mL/min) of an oleic acid solution of the metal oleate complex into an oleyl alcohol solvent at 230 °C results in a rapid esterification reaction and the production of metal oxide nanocrystals. The approach produces high yields of crystalline, monodisperse metal oxide nanoparticles containing manganese, iron, cobalt, zinc, and indium within 20 min. Synthesis of tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) can be accomplished with good control of the tin doping levels. Finally, the method makes it possible to perform epitaxial growth of shells onto nanocrystal cores to produce core/shell nanocrystals.

  1. Concurrent Formation of Carbon–Carbon Bonds and Functionalized Graphene by Oxidative Carbon-Hydrogen Coupling Reaction

    PubMed Central

    Morioku, Kumika; Morimoto, Naoki; Takeuchi, Yasuo; Nishina, Yuta

    2016-01-01

    Oxidative C–H coupling reactions were conducted using graphene oxide (GO) as an oxidant. GO showed high selectivity compared with commonly used oxidants such as (diacetoxyiodo) benzene and 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-p-benzoquinone. A mechanistic study revealed that radical species contributed to the reaction. After the oxidative coupling reaction, GO was reduced to form a material that shows electron conductivity and high specific capacitance. Therefore, this system could concurrently achieve two important reactions: C–C bond formation via C–H transformation and production of functionalized graphene. PMID:27181191

  2. Liquid-phase and solid-phase microwave irradiations for reduction of graphite oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Na; Wen, Chen-Yu; Zhang, David Wei; Wu, Dong-Ping; Zhang, Zhi-Bin; Zhang, Shi-Li

    2014-12-01

    In this paper, two microwave irradiation methods: (i) liquid-phase microwave irradiation (MWI) reduction of graphite oxide suspension dissolved in de-ionized water and N, N-dimethylformamide, respectively, and (ii) solid-phase MWI reduction of graphite oxide powder have been successfully carried out to reduce graphite oxide. The reduced graphene oxide products are thoroughly characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis, Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis absorption spectral analysis, and four-point probe conductivity measurements. The results show that both methods can efficiently remove the oxygen-containing functional groups attached to the graphite layers, though the solid-phase MWI reduction method can obtain far more efficiently a higher quality-reduced graphene oxide with fewer defects. The I(D)/I(G) ratio of the solid-phase MWI sample is as low as 0.46, which is only half of that of the liquid-phase MWI samples. The electrical conductivity of the reduced graphene oxide by the solid method reaches 747.9 S/m, which is about 25 times higher than that made by the liquid-phase method.

  3. Reduced graphene oxide-ZnO self-assembled films: tailoring the visible light photoconductivity by the intrinsic defect states in ZnO.

    PubMed

    Kavitha, M K; Gopinath, Pramod; John, Honey

    2015-06-14

    ZnO is a wide direct bandgap semiconductor; its absorption can be tuned to the visible spectral region by controlling the intrinsic defect levels. Combining graphene with ZnO can improve its performance by photo-induced charge separation by ZnO and electronic transport through graphene. When reduced graphene oxide-ZnO is prepared by a hydrothermal method, the photophysical studies indicate that oxygen vacancy defect states are healed out by diffusion of oxygen from GO to ZnO during its reduction. Because of the passivation of oxygen vacancies, the visible light photoconductivity of the hybrid is depleted, compared to pure ZnO. In order to overcome this reduction in photocurrent, a photoelectrode is fabricated by layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly of ZnO and reduced graphene oxide. The multilayer films are fabricated by the electrostatic LBL self-assembly technique using negatively charged poly(sodium 4-styrene sulfonate)-reduced graphene oxide (PSS-rGO) and positively charged polyacrylamide-ZnO (PAM-ZnO) as building blocks. The multilayer films fabricated by this technique will be highly interpenetrating; it will enhance the interaction between the ZnO and rGO perpendicular to the electrode surface. Upon illumination under bias voltage defect assisted excitation occurs in ZnO and the photogenerated charge carriers can transfer to graphene. The electron transferred to graphene sheets can recombine in two ways; either it can recombine with the holes in the valence band of ZnO in its bilayer or the ZnO in the next bilayer. This type of tunnelling of electrons from graphene to the successive bilayers will result in efficient charge transfer. This transfer and propagation of electron will enhance as the number of bilayers increases, which in turn improve the photocurrent of the multilayer films. Therefore this self-assembly technique is an effective approach to fabricate semiconductor-graphene films with excellent conductivity.

  4. Preparation of Graphene-Zinc Oxide Nanostructure Composite for Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muchtar, Ahmad Rifqi; Septiani, Ni Luh Wulan; Iqbal, Muhammad; Nuruddin, Ahmad; Yuliarto, Brian

    2018-03-01

    A simple method to synthesize graphene-zinc oxide nanocomposite has been developed. A reduced graphene oxide-ZnO nanocomposite was prepared using a reflux method with ethylene glycol as medium. X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurements were used to characterize the resulting composite materials. The highest response of about 98% was observed when using pure ZnO at 300°C, while the second highest sensor response of about 96% was achieved by graphene-ZnO with 1:3 composition. It was found that the graphene-zinc oxide hybrid has potential to improve sensor performance at low temperature. The graphene-ZnO hybrid with 1:3 composition showed good response of 36% at 125°C, an operating temperature at which pure ZnO showed no response.

  5. Preparation of Graphene-Zinc Oxide Nanostructure Composite for Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muchtar, Ahmad Rifqi; Septiani, Ni Luh Wulan; Iqbal, Muhammad; Nuruddin, Ahmad; Yuliarto, Brian

    2018-07-01

    A simple method to synthesize graphene-zinc oxide nanocomposite has been developed. A reduced graphene oxide-ZnO nanocomposite was prepared using a reflux method with ethylene glycol as medium. X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurements were used to characterize the resulting composite materials. The highest response of about 98% was observed when using pure ZnO at 300°C, while the second highest sensor response of about 96% was achieved by graphene-ZnO with 1:3 composition. It was found that the graphene-zinc oxide hybrid has potential to improve sensor performance at low temperature. The graphene-ZnO hybrid with 1:3 composition showed good response of 36% at 125°C, an operating temperature at which pure ZnO showed no response.

  6. Palladium nanoparticles supported on vertically oriented reduced graphene oxide for methanol electro-oxidation.

    PubMed

    Yang, Liming; Tang, Yanhong; Luo, Shenglian; Liu, Chengbin; Song, Hejie; Yan, Dafeng

    2014-10-01

    Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is a promising support material for nanosized electrocatalysts. However, the conventional stacking arrangement of rGO sheets confines the electrocatalysts between rGO layers, which decreases the number of catalytic sites substantially. We report here a facile synthesis of vertically oriented reduced graphene oxide (VrGO) through cyclic voltammetric electrolysis of graphene oxide (GO) in the presence of Na2 PdCl4 . Experiments without Pd nanoparticles or with a low loading amount of Pd nanoparticles results in the deposition of rGO parallel to the electrodes. The vertical orientation of Pd/rGO nanoflakes causes a remarkable enhancement of the catalytic activity toward methanol electro-oxidation. The mass activity (620.1 A gPd (-1) ) of Pd/VrGO is 1.9 and 6.2 times that of Pd/flat-lying rGO (331.8 A gPd (-1) ) and commercial Pd/C (100.5 A gPd (-1) ), respectively. Furthermore, the Pd/VrGO catalyst shows excellent resistance to CO poisoning. This work provides a simple wet-chemical method for VrGO preparation. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. The Effect of Varying Ultrafast Pulse Laser Energies on the Electrical Properties of Reduced Graphene Oxide Sheets in Solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ibrahim, Khaled H.; Irannejad, Mehrdad; Wales, Benjamin; Sanderson, Joseph; Musselman, Kevin P.; Yavuz, Mustafa

    2018-02-01

    Laser treatment of graphene oxide solution among other techniques is a well-established technique for producing reduced graphene sheets. However, production of high-quality ultra-low sheet resistance reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets in solution has been a challenge due to their high degree of randomness, defect-rich medium, and lack of controlability. Recent studies lack an in-depth analytic comparison of laser treatment parameters that yield the highest quality rGO sheets with a low defect ratio. Hence, in this study, we implement a comprehensive comparison of laser treatment parameters and their effect on the yielded rGO sheets from an electronic and physical standpoint. Ultra-low sheet resistance graphene oxide sheets were fabricated using ultrafast laser irradiation with different laser pulse energies in the range of 0.25-2 mJ. Laser treatment for 10 min using a pulse energy of 1 mJ resulted in an increase in the defect spacing, accompanied by a large red shift in the optical absorption of the C=C bond, indicating significant restoration of the s p 2 carbon bonds. These enhancements resulted in a significant reduction in the electrical resistance of the rGO flakes (up to 2 orders of magnitude), raising the electron mobility of the films produced using the irradiated graphene oxide a step closer to that of pristine graphene films. From this study, we can also deduce which exposure regimes result in the fabrication of quantum dots and continuous defect-free films.

  8. Hydrothermal synthesis of red phosphorus @reduced graphene oxide nanohybrid with enhanced electrochemical performance as anode material of lithium-ion battery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Xing; Yuan, Zewei; Wang, Xiaobo; Jiang, Guodong; Xiong, Jian; Yuan, Songdong

    2018-03-01

    Red phosphorus @reduced graphene oxide (P @rGO) nanohybrid was synthesized via a two-step hydrothermal process. The obtained P @rGO nanohybrid was characterized by TEM, SEM, Raman, XRD and XPS. It was found that the nano-scale red phosphorus encapsulated in the reduced graphene oxide and the existence of phosphorus promote the reduction of graphene oxide. The electrochemical performance of P @rGO nanohybrid as an anode material was investigated by galvanostatic charge/discharge, rate performance, cyclic voltammetry and AC impedance test. With increasing the mass of rGO, the electrochemical performance of P @rGO nanohybrid was significantly enhanced. The first discharge/charge specific capacity of the nanohybrid prepared at optimum condition (P:GO = 7:3) could achieve approximately 2400 mAh/g and 1600 mAh/g respectively and still retained ∼1000 mAh/g after 80 cycles and the coulombic efficiency maintained almost 100%. The enhancement in P @rGO nanohybrid was attributed to the introduction of graphene, which led to the elimination of volume effect and the enhancement of conductively of pure red phosphorus.

  9. Origin of the Chemical and Kinetic Stability of Graphene Oxide

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Si; Bongiorno, Angelo

    2013-01-01

    At moderate temperatures (≤ 70°C), thermal reduction of graphene oxide is inefficient and after its synthesis the material enters in a metastable state. Here, first-principles and statistical calculations are used to investigate both the low-temperature processes leading to decomposition of graphene oxide and the role of ageing on the structure and stability of this material. Our study shows that the key factor underlying the stability of graphene oxide is the tendency of the oxygen functionalities to agglomerate and form highly oxidized domains surrounded by areas of pristine graphene. Within the agglomerates of functional groups, the primary decomposition reactions are hindered by both geometrical and energetic factors. The number of reacting sites is reduced by the occurrence of local order in the oxidized domains, and due to the close packing of the oxygen functionalities, the decomposition reactions become – on average – endothermic by more than 0.6 eV. PMID:23963517

  10. Origin of the chemical and kinetic stability of graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Si; Bongiorno, Angelo

    2013-01-01

    At moderate temperatures (≤ 70°C), thermal reduction of graphene oxide is inefficient and after its synthesis the material enters in a metastable state. Here, first-principles and statistical calculations are used to investigate both the low-temperature processes leading to decomposition of graphene oxide and the role of ageing on the structure and stability of this material. Our study shows that the key factor underlying the stability of graphene oxide is the tendency of the oxygen functionalities to agglomerate and form highly oxidized domains surrounded by areas of pristine graphene. Within the agglomerates of functional groups, the primary decomposition reactions are hindered by both geometrical and energetic factors. The number of reacting sites is reduced by the occurrence of local order in the oxidized domains, and due to the close packing of the oxygen functionalities, the decomposition reactions become - on average - endothermic by more than 0.6 eV.

  11. Graphene oxide vs. reduced graphene oxide as saturable absorbers for Er-doped passively mode-locked fiber laser.

    PubMed

    Sobon, Grzegorz; Sotor, Jaroslaw; Jagiello, Joanna; Kozinski, Rafal; Zdrojek, Mariusz; Holdynski, Marcin; Paletko, Piotr; Boguslawski, Jakub; Lipinska, Ludwika; Abramski, Krzysztof M

    2012-08-13

    In this work we demonstrate comprehensive studies on graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) based saturable absorbers (SA) for mode-locking of Er-doped fiber lasers. The paper describes the fabrication process of both saturable absorbers and detailed comparison of their parameters. Our results show, that there is no significant difference in the laser performance between the investigated SA. Both provided stable, mode-locked operation with sub-400 fs soliton pulses and more than 9 nm optical bandwidth at 1560 nm center wavelength. It has been shown that GO might be successfully used as an efficient SA without the need of its reduction to rGO. Taking into account simpler manufacturing technology and the possibility of mass production, GO seems to be a good candidate as a cost-effective material for saturable absorbers for Er-doped fiber lasers.

  12. Ultrathin planar graphene supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Yoo, Jung Joon; Balakrishnan, Kaushik; Huang, Jingsong; Meunier, Vincent; Sumpter, Bobby G; Srivastava, Anchal; Conway, Michelle; Reddy, Arava Leela Mohana; Yu, Jin; Vajtai, Robert; Ajayan, Pulickel M

    2011-04-13

    With the advent of atomically thin and flat layers of conducting materials such as graphene, new designs for thin film energy storage devices with good performance have become possible. Here, we report an "in-plane" fabrication approach for ultrathin supercapacitors based on electrodes comprised of pristine graphene and multilayer reduced graphene oxide. The in-plane design is straightforward to implement and exploits efficiently the surface of each graphene layer for energy storage. The open architecture and the effect of graphene edges enable even the thinnest of devices, made from as grown 1-2 graphene layers, to reach specific capacities up to 80 μFcm(-2), while much higher (394 μFcm(-2)) specific capacities are observed multilayer reduced graphene oxide electrodes. The performances of devices with pristine as well as thicker graphene-based structures are examined using a combination of experiments and model calculations. The demonstrated all solid-state supercapacitors provide a prototype for a broad range of thin-film based energy storage devices.

  13. Highly crumpled solar reduced graphene oxide electrode for supercapacitor application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mohanapriya, K.; Ahirrao, Dinesh J.; Jha, Neetu

    2018-04-01

    Highly crumpled solar reduced graphene oxide (CSRGO) was synthesized by simple and rapid method through freezing the solar reduced graphene oxide aqueous suspension using liquid nitrogen and used as electrode material for supercapacitor application. This electrode material was characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-Ray diffractometer (XRD) and Raman Spectroscopy techniques to understand the morphology and structure. The electrochemical performance was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge (CD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) using 6M KOH electrolyte. The CSRGO exhibit high specifc capacitance of 210.1 F g-1 at the current density of 0.5 A g-1 and shows excellent rate capability. These features make the CSRGO material as promising electrode for high-performance supercapacitors.

  14. Facile synthesis of highly active reduced graphene oxide-CuI catalyst through a simple combustion method for photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to methanol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Wenjun; Li, Yingjie; Zhang, Xiaoxiong; Li, Cuiluo

    2017-09-01

    We report a facile combustion method synthesis of reduced graphene oxide/CuI composites as a photocatalyst, in which CuI nanoparticles were homogeneously distributed on the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO), showing a good visible light response. The rGO-supported and unsupported CuI hybrids were tested over the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 for methanol evolution in visible light. In the current study rGO-CuI composites have shown excellent yields (19.91 μmol g-cat-1). rGO provides a light-weight, charge complementary and two-dimensional material that interacts effectively with the CuI nanoparticles.

  15. Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide: Effects of Microwave Power and Irradiation Time

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Agusu, La; Ode Ahmad, La; Anggara, Desna; Alimin; Mitsudo, Seitaro; Fujii, Yutaka; Kikuchi, Hiromitsu

    2018-04-01

    Reduced graphene oxide has been synthesihzed by one-pot microwave assisted hydrothermal method. Effects of microwave power and irradiation time to its crystal structure and electrical conductivity were investigated. Here, graphene oxide, firstly, were synthesized by modified hummers method and subsequently mixed with Zn as a reducing agent. Then it was transferred to modified domestic microwave oven (800 watts) with glass distiller equipment for completely reduction process. Three different power levels (240, 400, 630 watts) and two cases of irradiation times (20 and 40 minutes) were treated. XRD study shows that irradiation time variation is more effective than the variation of power level. Power level of 270 watts and for 40 minutes microwave irradiation are enough for producing estimated bilayer rGO with graphene interlayer of ~0.4 nm. Bilayer graphene and water molecule (~0.3 nm) may vibrate the same manner and perhaps they are accepting the same temperature. Graphene seems to be re-arranged in unspecified way among the thermal pressure, temperature gradient and/or water surface tension between graphene and water induced by microwave, in order to achieve thermal equilibrium through out the system The electrical conductivity rGO/PVA (60/40 %w) paper are ranging from 15.6 to 43.4 mS/cm.

  16. Reduced graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle nanocomposite: a potential anticancer nanotherapy.

    PubMed

    Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi; Han, Jae Woong; Park, Jung Hyun; Kim, Eunsu; Choi, Yun-Jung; Kwon, Deug-Nam; Kim, Jin-Hoi

    2015-01-01

    Graphene and graphene-based nanocomposites are used in various research areas including sensing, energy storage, and catalysis. The mechanical, thermal, electrical, and biological properties render graphene-based nanocomposites of metallic nanoparticles useful for several biomedical applications. Epithelial ovarian carcinoma is the fifth most deadly cancer in women; most tumors initially respond to chemotherapy, but eventually acquire chemoresistance. Consequently, the development of novel molecules for cancer therapy is essential. This study was designed to develop a simple, non-toxic, environmentally friendly method for the synthesis of reduced graphene oxide-silver (rGO-Ag) nanoparticle nanocomposites using Tilia amurensis plant extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents. The anticancer properties of rGO-Ag were evaluated in ovarian cancer cells. The synthesized rGO-Ag nanocomposite was characterized using various analytical techniques. The anticancer properties of the rGO-Ag nanocomposite were evaluated using a series of assays such as cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase leakage, reactive oxygen species generation, cellular levels of malonaldehyde and glutathione, caspase-3 activity, and DNA fragmentation in ovarian cancer cells (A2780). AgNPs with an average size of 20 nm were uniformly dispersed on graphene sheets. The data obtained from the biochemical assays indicate that the rGO-Ag nanocomposite significantly inhibited cell viability in A2780 ovarian cancer cells and increased lactate dehydrogenase leakage, reactive oxygen species generation, caspase-3 activity, and DNA fragmentation compared with other tested nanomaterials such as graphene oxide, rGO, and AgNPs. T. amurensis plant extract-mediated rGO-Ag nanocomposites could facilitate the large-scale production of graphene-based nanocomposites; rGO-Ag showed a significant inhibiting effect on cell viability compared to graphene oxide, rGO, and silver nanoparticles. The nanocomposites could be effective non-toxic therapeutic agents for the treatment of both cancer and cancer stem cells.

  17. Polyelectrolyte/Graphene Oxide Barrier Film for Flexible OLED.

    PubMed

    Yang, Seung-Yeol; Park, Jongwhan; Kim, Yong-Seog

    2015-10-01

    Ultra-thin flexible nano-composite barrier layer consists of graphene oxide and polyelectrolyte was prepared using the layer-by-layer processing method. Microstructures of the barrier layer was optimized via modifying coating conditions and inducing chemical reactions. Although the barrier layer consists of hydrophilic polyelectrolyte was not effective in blocking the water vapor permeation, the chemical reduction of graphene oxide as well as conversion of polyelectrolyte to hydrophobic nature were very effective in reducing the permeation.

  18. Graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide induced neural pheochromocytoma-derived PC12 cell lines apoptosis and cell cycle alterations via the ERK signaling pathways.

    PubMed

    Kang, Yiyuan; Liu, Jia; Wu, Junrong; Yin, Qian; Liang, Huimin; Chen, Aijie; Shao, Longquan

    2017-01-01

    Given the novel applications of graphene materials in biomedical and electronics industry, the health hazards of these particles have attracted extensive worldwide attention. Although many studies have been performed on graphene material-induced toxic effects, toxicological data for the effect of graphene materials on the nervous system are lacking. In this study, we focused on the biological effects of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) materials on PC12 cells, a type of traditional neural cell line. We found that GO and rGO exerted significant toxic effects on PC12 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, apoptosis appeared to be a response to toxicity. A potent increase in the number of PC12 cells at G0/G1 phase after GO and rGO exposure was detected by cell cycle analysis. We found that phosphorylation levels of ERK signaling molecules, which are related to cell cycle regulation and apoptosis, were significantly altered after GO and rGO exposure. In conclusion, our results show that GO has more potent toxic effects than rGO and that apoptosis and cell cycle arrest are the main toxicity responses to GO and rGO treatments, which are likely due to ERK pathway regulation.

  19. Facile synthesis and electrochemical performances of hollow graphene spheres as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yao, Ran-Ran; Zhao, Dong-Lin; Bai, Li-Zhong; Yao, Ning-Na; Xu, Li

    2014-07-01

    The hollow graphene oxide spheres have been successfully fabricated from graphene oxide nanosheets utilizing a water-in-oil emulsion technique, which were prepared from natural flake graphite by oxidation and ultrasonic treatment. The hollow graphene oxide spheres were reduced to hollow graphene spheres at 500°C for 3 h under an atmosphere of Ar(95%)/H2(5%). The first reversible specific capacity of the hollow graphene spheres was as high as 903 mAh g-1 at a current density of 50 mAh g-1. Even at a high current density of 500 mAh g-1, the reversible specific capacity remained at 502 mAh g-1. After 60 cycles, the reversible capacity was still kept at 652 mAh g-1 at the current density of 50 mAh g-1. These results indicate that the prepared hollow graphene spheres possess excellent electrochemical performances for lithium storage. The high rate performance of hollow graphene spheres thanks to the hollow structure, thin and porous shells consisting of graphene sheets.

  20. Study of mechanism involved in synthesis of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide from graphene nanoplatelets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Bhasha; Shekhar, Shashank; Malik, Parul; Jain, Purnima

    2018-06-01

    Graphene, a wonder material has inspired quest among researchers due to its numerous applications and exceptional properties. This paper highlights the mechanism and chemistry behind the fabrication of graphene oxide by using phosphoric acid. Chemical functionalization is of prime importance which avoids agglomeration of nanoparticles to attain inherent properties. As non-homogeneous dispersion limits its utilization due to interfacial interactions which restrict reactive sites to produce intercalated network. Thus, chemically functionalized graphene leads to stable dispersion and enhances thermal, mechanical and electrical properties of the resultant polymer composite materials. Solubility of graphene in aqueous solution is the major issue because graphene is hydrophobic, to rectify this oxygen containing hydrophilic groups must be introduced to make it compatible and this can be attained by covalent functionalization. Among all nanofiller GO has shown average particle size i.e. 95 nm and highest surface charge density. The characteristic changes were estimated using Raman spectra.

  1. Role of chemical functional groups on thermal and electrical properties of various graphene oxide derivatives: a comparative x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Balaji Mohan, Velram; Jakisch, Lothar; Jayaraman, Krishnan; Bhattacharyya, Debes

    2018-03-01

    In recent years, graphene and its derivatives have become prominent subject matter due to their fascinating combination of properties and potential applications in a number application. While several fundamental studies have been progressed, there is a particular need to understand how different graphene derivatives are influenced in terms of their electrical and thermal conductivities by different functional groups they end up with through their manufacturing and functionalisation methods. This article addresses of the role of different functional groups present of different of reduced graphene oxides (rGO) concerning their electrical and thermal properties, and the results were compared with elemental analyses of functionalised reduced graphene oxide (frGO) and graphene. The results showed that electrical and thermal conductivities of the rGO samples, highly dependent on the presence of residual functional groups from oxidation, reduction and functionalisation processes. The increase in reduction of oxygen, hydroxyl, carboxylic, epoxide moieties and heterocyclic compounds increase the specific surface area of the samples through which the mean electron path has increased. This improved both electrical and thermal conductivities together in all the samples which were highly dependent on the efficiency of different reductant used in this study.

  2. Colloidal inorganic nanocrystals: Nucleation, growth and biological applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lynch, Jared James

    Colloidal inorganic nanocrystals are a class of material whose size ranges from a few nanometers to a hundred nanometers in dimension. These nanocrystals have size dependent properties that differ significantly from the bulk material counterparts. Due to their unique physical properties colloidal inorganic nanocrystals have several promising applications in a diverse range of areas, such as biomedical diagnosis, catalysis, plasmonics, high-density data storage and solar energy conversion. This dissertation presents the study of the formation of iron oxide nanocrystals under the influence of solvent and Ar gas bubbles, the phase transfer of metal oxide nanocrystals into water using inorganic ions, and the doping of semiconductor CdS/ZnS core/shell nanocrystals with copper and silver ions. First, the formation of iron oxide nanocrystals is investigated in the presence of boiling solvent or Ar bubbles. Using a non-injection based synthesis method, the thermal decomposition of iron oleate was studied under various reaction conditions, and the role of the bubbles on the nucleation and growth of iron oxide nanocrystals was determined. Kinetics studies were used to elucidate how latent heat transfer from the bubbles allows for "active monomers" to form preferentially from exothermic reactions taking place during nucleation. General insights into colloidal inorganic nanocrystal formation are discussed. Second, a non-injection based synthesis for CdS/ZnS core/shell nanocrystals is used to make high quality semiconductor particles which are intentionally doped with Cu or Ag ions. The Ag ions effect on the optical properties of the CdS/ZnS nanocrystals is investigated. The absorption and fluorescence of the samples is measured as a function of time and temperature. Proposed mechanisms for the observations are given and thoroughly discussed. Comparisons between previous results for Cu doped CdS/ZnS nanocrystals are also made to further understand how doping of semiconductor nanocrystals can be realized. Finally, a novel phase transfer process is demonstrated using inorganic salts, such as sodium arsenite, to make water soluble metal oxide nanocrystals. The water soluble iron oxide nanocrystals are fully characterized by several complementary techniques and then used in cellular studies. The arsenite-coated iron oxide composite nanocrystals (AICN) are shown to be effective cancer therapy agents.

  3. The cooperative effect of reduced graphene oxide and Triton X-114 on the electromembrane microextraction efficiency of Pramipexole as a model analyte in urine samples.

    PubMed

    Fashi, Armin; Khanban, Fatemeh; Yaftian, Mohammad Reza; Zamani, Abbasali

    2017-01-01

    A new design of electromembrane microextraction coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography was developed for the determination of Pramipexole as a model analyte in urine samples. The presence of reduced graphene oxide in the membrane and Triton X-114 in the donor phase augments the extraction efficiency of Pramipexole by the proposed method. Dispersed reduced graphene oxide in the organic solvent was held in the pores of the fiber wall by capillary forces and sonication. It is possible that the immobilized reduced graphene oxide acts as a sorbent, affording an additional pathway for analyte transportation. Besides, the presence of Triton X-114 in the donor phase promotes effective migration of ionic analytes across the membrane. The parameters influencing the extraction procedure, such as type and concentration of surfactant, type of organic solvent, amount of reduced graphene oxide, sonication time, applied voltage, extraction time, ionic strength, pH of the donor and acceptor solutions, and stirring rate were optimized. The linear working ranges of the method for preconcentration- determination of Pramipexole in water and urine samples were found to be 0.13-1000 and 0.47-1000ngmL -1 with corresponding detection limits of 0.04 and 0.14ngmL -1 , respectively. The proposed method allows achieving enrichment factors of 301 and 265 for preconcentration of the analyte in water and urine samples, respectively. The method was successfully applied for the determination of Pramipexole in the urine samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Nanoscale reduction of graphene oxide thin films and its characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lorenzoni, M.; Giugni, A.; Di Fabrizio, E.; Pérez-Murano, Francesc; Mescola, A.; Torre, B.

    2015-07-01

    In this paper, we report on a method to reduce thin films of graphene oxide (GO) to a spatial resolution better than 100 nm over several tens of micrometers by means of an electrochemical scanning probe based lithography. In situ tip-current measurements show that an edged drop in electrical resistance characterizes the reduced areas, and that the reduction process is, to a good approximation, proportional to the applied bias between the onset voltage and the saturation thresholds. An atomic force microscope (AFM) quantifies the drop of the surface height for the reduced profile due to the loss of oxygen. Complementarily, lateral force microscopy reveals a homogeneous friction coefficient of the reduced regions that is remarkably lower than that of native graphene oxide, confirming a chemical change in the patterned region. Micro Raman spectroscopy, which provides access to insights into the chemical process, allows one to quantify the restoration and de-oxidation of the graphitic network driven by the electrochemical reduction and to determine characteristic length scales. It also confirms the homogeneity of the process over wide areas. The results shown were obtained from accurate analysis of the shift, intensity and width of Raman peaks for the main vibrational bands of GO and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) mapped over large areas. Concerning multilayered GO thin films obtained by drop-casting we have demonstrated an unprecedented lateral resolution in ambient conditions as well as an improved control, characterization and understanding of the reduction process occurring in GO randomly folded multilayers, useful for large-scale processing of graphene-based material.

  5. Electrical properties of graphene tunnel junctions with high-κ metal-oxide barriers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Feng, Ying; Trainer, Daniel J.; Chen, Ke

    2017-04-01

    An insulating barrier is one of the key components in electronic devices that makes use of quantum tunneling principles. Many metal-oxides have been used as a good barrier material in a tunnel junction for their large band gap, stable chemical properties and superb properties for forming a thin and pin-hole-free insulating layer. The reduced dimensions of transistors have led to the need for alternative, high dielectric constant (high-κ) oxides to replace conventional silicon-based dielectrics to reduce the leaking current induced by electron tunneling. On the other hand, a tunnel junction with one or both electrodes made of graphene may lead to novel applications due to the massless Dirac fermions from the graphene. Here we have fabricated sandwich-type graphene tunnel junctions with high-κ metal-oxides as barriers, including Al2O3, HfO2, ZrO2, and TiO2. Tunneling properties are investigated by observing the temperature and time dependences of the tunneling spectra. Our results show the potential for applications of high-κ oxides in graphene tunnel junctions and bringing new opportunities for memory and logic electronic devices.

  6. Graphene oxide reinforced core-shell structured Ag@Cu2O with tunable hierarchical morphologies and their morphology-dependent electrocatalytic properties for bio-sensing applications.

    PubMed

    Gan, Tian; Wang, Zhikai; Shi, Zhaoxia; Zheng, Dongyun; Sun, Junyong; Liu, Yanming

    2018-07-30

    In this study, a facile solution approach was developed for the synthesis of a series of core-shell structured Ag@Cu 2 O nanocrystals of various shapes including triangles, spheres, and cubes with well-defined stable heterojunctions. The electrooxidation of dopamine (DA), uric acid (UA), guanine (G), and adenine (A) using these hybrids revealed morphology-dependent sensing properties, with activities and accumulation ability following the order, triangular Ag@Cu 2 O > spherical Ag@Cu 2 O > cubic Ag@Cu 2 O. Further, we constructed a novel graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet-reinforced triangular Ag@Cu 2 O ternary hetero-nanostructure. Such a hybrid with a three-dimensional interconnected hierarchical architecture is suitable for catalysis, since it not only leads to improved interfacial electron transfer, but also readily exposes the highly catalytic Ag@Cu 2 O to the reactants. Therefore, more enhanced electrochemical activities were observed for the oxidation of DA, UA, G, and A. This study provides an efficient way to synthesize morphology-controlled Ag@Cu 2 O heterogeneous catalysts for the fabrication of potential biosensors, and also opens up attractive avenues in the design of multifunctional ternary noble metal-semiconductor-carbon hybrids. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Fluorescence Intermittency and Nanodot Evolution in Graphene Oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ruth, Anthony; Michitoshi, Hayashi; McDonald, Matthew; Si, Jixin; Morozov, Yuri; Zapol, Peter; Kuno, Masaru; Janko, Boldizsar

    In recent experiments, micron-sized reduced graphene oxide (rGO) flakes were observed to exhibit strong photoluminescence intensity fluctuations, or blinking. Although blinking has been observed in a wide variety of nanoscale emitters, and striking universalities exist across these very different systems, rGO is the first quasi-two dimensional emitter that shows blinking. Despite the widespread presence of blinking at nanoscale, a microscopic mechanism behind this phenomenon remains elusive. Here we provide density functional theory results, analytical calculations, and Monte Carlo simulations to connect the fluorescence trajectories observed in the experiment to microscopic processes. Through Monte Carlo simulations of chemical processes occurring on the graphene oxide surface, we observe the formation and destruction of carbon nanodots. Finally, we use emission characteristics of carbon nanodots from Ab Initio methods to reconstruct the photoluminescence of the macroscopic flake. In particular, we are investigating whether fluorescence intermittency in reduced graphene oxide is an intrinsic optoelectronic property of the nanodot constituents or the result of reversible chemical processes capable of changing the size and number of graphene nanodots. This work was supported by a NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship.

  8. Studies of Reduced Graphene Oxide and Graphite Oxide in the Aspect of Their Possible Application in Gas Sensors

    PubMed Central

    Drewniak, Sabina; Muzyka, Roksana; Stolarczyk, Agnieszka; Pustelny, Tadeusz; Kotyczka-Morańska, Michalina; Setkiewicz, Maciej

    2016-01-01

    The paper presents the results of investigations on resistance structures based on graphite oxide (GRO) and graphene oxide (rGO). The subject matter of the investigations was thaw the sensitivity of the tested structures was affected by hydrogen, nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide. The experiments were performed at a temperature range from 30 °C to 150 °C in two carrier gases: nitrogen and synthetic air. The measurements were also aimed at characterization of the graphite oxide and graphene oxide. In our measurements we used (among others) techniques such as: Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM); Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM); Raman Spectroscopy (RS); Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray Photoelectron Microscopy (XPS). The data resulting from the characterizations of graphite oxide and graphene oxide have made it possible to interpret the obtained results from the point of view of physicochemical changes occurring in these structures. PMID:26784198

  9. Studies of Reduced Graphene Oxide and Graphite Oxide in the Aspect of Their Possible Application in Gas Sensors.

    PubMed

    Drewniak, Sabina; Muzyka, Roksana; Stolarczyk, Agnieszka; Pustelny, Tadeusz; Kotyczka-Morańska, Michalina; Setkiewicz, Maciej

    2016-01-15

    The paper presents the results of investigations on resistance structures based on graphite oxide (GRO) and graphene oxide (rGO). The subject matter of the investigations was thaw the sensitivity of the tested structures was affected by hydrogen, nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide. The experiments were performed at a temperature range from 30 °C to 150 °C in two carrier gases: nitrogen and synthetic air. The measurements were also aimed at characterization of the graphite oxide and graphene oxide. In our measurements we used (among others) techniques such as: Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM); Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM); Raman Spectroscopy (RS); Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray Photoelectron Microscopy (XPS). The data resulting from the characterizations of graphite oxide and graphene oxide have made it possible to interpret the obtained results from the point of view of physicochemical changes occurring in these structures.

  10. Cellulose nanofibril/reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanotube hybrid aerogels for highly flexible and all-solid-state supercapacitors

    Treesearch

    Qifeng Zheng; Zhiyong Cai; Zhenqiang Ma; Shaoqin Gong

    2015-01-01

    A novel type of highly flexible and all-solid-state supercapacitor that uses cellulose nanofibril (CNF)/reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrid aerogels as electrodes and H2SO4 poly (vinyl alcohol) PVA gel as the electrolyte was developed and is reported here. These flexible solid-state supercapacitors...

  11. Anti-solvent derived non-stacked reduced graphene oxide for high performance supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Yoon, Yeoheung; Lee, Keunsik; Baik, Chul; Yoo, Heejoun; Min, Misook; Park, Younghun; Lee, Sae Mi; Lee, Hyoyoung

    2013-08-27

    An anti-solvent for graphene oxide (GO), hexane, is introduced to increase the surface area and the pore volume of the non-stacked GO/reduced GO 3D structure and allows the formation of a highly crumpled non-stacked GO powder, which clearly shows ideal supercapacitor behavior. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. Enhanced adsorptive removal of p-nitrophenol from water by aluminum metal-organic framework/reduced graphene oxide composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Zhibin; Yuan, Xingzhong; Zhong, Hua; Wang, Hou; Zeng, Guangming; Chen, Xiaohong; Wang, Hui; Zhang, Lei; Shao, Jianguang

    2016-05-01

    In this study, the composite of aluminum metal-organic framework MIL-68(Al) and reduced graphene oxide (MA/RG) was synthesized via a one-step solvothermal method, and their performances for p-nitrophenol (PNP) adsorption from aqueous solution were systematically investigated. The introduction of reduced graphene oxide (RG) into MIL-68(Al) (MA) significantly changes the morphologies of the MA and increases the surface area. The MA/RG-15% prepared at RG-to-MA mass ratio of 15% shows a PNP uptake rate 64% and 123% higher than MIL-68(Al) and reduced graphene oxide (RG), respectively. The hydrogen bond and π - π dispersion were considered to be the major driving force for the spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process for PNP removal. The adsorption kinetics, which was controlled by film-diffusion and intra-particle diffusion, was greatly influenced by solution pH, ionic strength, temperature and initial PNP concentration. The adsorption kinetics and isotherms can be well delineated using pseudo-second-order and Langmuir equations, respectively. The presence of phenol or isomeric nitrophenols in the solution had minimal influence on PNP adsorption by reusable MA/RG composite.

  13. Enhanced adsorptive removal of p-nitrophenol from water by aluminum metal–organic framework/reduced graphene oxide composite

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Zhibin; Yuan, Xingzhong; Zhong, Hua; Wang, Hou; Zeng, Guangming; Chen, Xiaohong; Wang, Hui; zhang, Lei; Shao, Jianguang

    2016-01-01

    In this study, the composite of aluminum metal–organic framework MIL-68(Al) and reduced graphene oxide (MA/RG) was synthesized via a one–step solvothermal method, and their performances for p–nitrophenol (PNP) adsorption from aqueous solution were systematically investigated. The introduction of reduced graphene oxide (RG) into MIL-68(Al) (MA) significantly changes the morphologies of the MA and increases the surface area. The MA/RG-15% prepared at RG-to-MA mass ratio of 15% shows a PNP uptake rate 64% and 123% higher than MIL-68(Al) and reduced graphene oxide (RG), respectively. The hydrogen bond and π – π dispersion were considered to be the major driving force for the spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process for PNP removal. The adsorption kinetics, which was controlled by film–diffusion and intra–particle diffusion, was greatly influenced by solution pH, ionic strength, temperature and initial PNP concentration. The adsorption kinetics and isotherms can be well delineated using pseudo–second–order and Langmuir equations, respectively. The presence of phenol or isomeric nitrophenols in the solution had minimal influence on PNP adsorption by reusable MA/RG composite. PMID:27181188

  14. Reverse microemulsion synthesis of nickel-cobalt hexacyanoferrate/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for high-performance supercapacitors and sodium ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qiu, Xiaoming; Liu, Yongchang; Wang, Luning; Fan, Li-Zhen

    2018-03-01

    Prussian blue analogues with tunable open channels are of fundamental and technological importance for energy storage systems. Herein, a novel facile synthesis of nickel-cobalt hexacyanoferrate/reduced graphene oxide (denoted as Ni-CoHCF/rGO) nanocomposite is realized by a reverse microemulsion method. The very fine Ni-CoHCF nanoparticles (10-20 nm) are homogeneously anchored on the surface of reduced graphene oxide by electrostatic adsorption and reduced graphene oxide is well-separated by Ni-CoHCF particles. Benefiting from the combined advantages of this structure, the Ni-. It CoHCF/rGO nanocomposite can be used as electrodes for both supercapacitors and sodium ion batteries exhibits excellent pseudocapacitve performance in terms of high specific capacitance of 466 F g-1 at 0.2 A g-1 and 350 F g-1 at 10 A g-1, along with high cycling stabilities. As a cathode material for sodium ion batteries, it also demonstrates a high reversible capacity of 118 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1, good rate capability, and superior cycling stability. These results suggest its potential as an efficient electrode for high-performance energy storage and renewable delivery devices.

  15. Sulfonated graphene oxide-ZnO-Ag photocatalyst for fast photodegradation and disinfection under visible light.

    PubMed

    Gao, Peng; Ng, Kokseng; Sun, Darren Delai

    2013-11-15

    Synthesis of efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst is urgent but challenging for environmental remediation. In this work, for the first time, the hierarchical plasmonic sulfonated graphene oxide-ZnO-Ag (SGO-ZnO-Ag) composites were prepared through nanocrystal-seed-directed hydrothermal method combining with polyol-reduction process. The results indicated that SGO-ZnO-Ag exhibited much faster rate in photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) and disinfection of Escherichia coli (E. coli), than ZnO, SGO-ZnO and ZnO-Ag. SGO-ZnO-Ag totally degraded RhB dye and kill 99% of E. coli within 20 min under visible light irradiation. The outstanding performances of SGO-ZnO-Ag were attributed to the synergetic merits of SGO sheets, ZnO nanorod arrays and Ag nanoparticles. Firstly, the light absorption ability of SGO-ZnO-Ag composite in the visible region was enhanced due to the surface plasmon resonance of Ag. In addition, the hierarchical structure of SGO-ZnO-Ag composite improved the incident light scattering and reflection. Furthermore, SGO sheets facilitated charge transfer and reduce electron-hole recombination rate. Finally, the tentative mechanism was proposed and verified by the photoluminescence (PL) measurement as well as the theoretical finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation. In view of above, this work paves the way for preparation of multi-component plasmonic composites and highlights the potential applications of SGO-ZnO-Ag in photocatalytic wastewater treatment field. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Synthesis of graphene–transition metal oxide hybrid nanoparticles and their application in various fields

    PubMed Central

    Scheer, Elke; Polarz, Sebastian

    2017-01-01

    Single layer graphite, known as graphene, is an important material because of its unique two-dimensional structure, high conductivity, excellent electron mobility and high surface area. To explore the more prospective properties of graphene, graphene hybrids have been synthesised, where graphene has been integrated with other important nanoparticles (NPs). These graphene–NP hybrid structures are particularly interesting because after hybridisation they not only display the individual properties of graphene and the NPs, but also they exhibit further synergistic properties. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO), a graphene-like material, can be easily prepared by reduction of graphene oxide (GO) and therefore offers the possibility to fabricate a large variety of graphene–transition metal oxide (TMO) NP hybrids. These hybrid materials are promising alternatives to reduce the drawbacks of using only TMO NPs in various applications, such as anode materials in lithium ion batteries (LIBs), sensors, photocatalysts, removal of organic pollutants, etc. Recent studies have shown that a single graphene sheet (GS) has extraordinary electronic transport properties. One possible route to connecting those properties for application in electronics would be to prepare graphene-wrapped TMO NPs. In this critical review, we discuss the development of graphene–TMO hybrids with the detailed account of their synthesis. In addition, attention is given to the wide range of applications. This review covers the details of graphene–TMO hybrid materials and ends with a summary where an outlook on future perspectives to improve the properties of the hybrid materials in view of applications are outlined. PMID:28462071

  17. Composite anode for lithium ion batteries

    DOEpatents

    de Guzman, Rhet C.; Ng, K.Y. Simon; Salley, Steven O.

    2018-03-06

    A composite anode for a lithium-ion battery is manufactured from silicon nanoparticles having diameters mostly under 10 nm; providing an oxide layer on the silicon nanoparticles; dispersing the silicon nanoparticles in a polar liquid; providing a graphene oxide suspension; mixing the polar liquid containing the dispersed silicone nanoparticles with the graphene oxide suspension to obtain a composite mixture; probe-sonicating the mixture for a predetermined time; filtering the composite mixture to obtain a solid composite; drying the composite; and reducing the composite to obtain graphene and silicon.

  18. Reduced electron back-injection in Al2O3/AlOx/Al2O3/graphene charge-trap memory devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Sejoon; Song, Emil B.; Min Kim, Sung; Lee, Youngmin; Seo, David H.; Seo, Sunae; Wang, Kang L.

    2012-12-01

    A graphene charge-trap memory is devised using a single-layer graphene channel with an Al2O3/AlOx/Al2O3 oxide stack, where the ion-bombarded AlOx layer is intentionally added to create an abundance of charge-trap sites. The low dielectric constant of AlOx compared to Al2O3 reduces the potential drop in the control oxide Al2O3 and suppresses the electron back-injection from the gate to the charge-storage layer, allowing the memory window of the device to be further extended. This shows that the usage of a lower dielectric constant in the charge-storage layer compared to that of the control oxide layer improves the memory performance for graphene charge-trap memories.

  19. Ultrathin Tungsten Oxide Nanowires/Reduced Graphene Oxide Composites for Toluene Sensing

    PubMed Central

    Hassan, Muhammad; Wang, Zhi-Hua; Huang, Wei-Ran; Li, Min-Qiang; Chen, Jia-Fu

    2017-01-01

    Graphene-based composites have gained great attention in the field of gas sensor fabrication due to their higher surface area with additional functional groups. Decorating one-dimensional (1D) semiconductor nanomaterials on graphene also show potential benefits in gas sensing applications. Here we demonstrate the one-pot and low cost synthesis of W18O49 NWs/rGO composites with different amount of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) which show excellent gas-sensing properties towards toluene and strong dependence on their chemical composition. As compared to pure W18O49 NWs, an improved gas sensing response (2.8 times higher) was achieved in case of W18O49 NWs composite with 0.5 wt. % rGO. Promisingly, this strategy can be extended to prepare other nanowire based composites with excellent gas-sensing performance. PMID:28961178

  20. A rapid electrochemical monitoring platform for sensitive determination of thiamethoxam based on β-cyclodextrin-graphene composite.

    PubMed

    Zhai, XingChen; Zhang, Hua; Zhang, Min; Yang, Xin; Gu, Cheng; Zhou, GuoPeng; Zhao, HaiTian; Wang, ZhenYu; Dong, AiJun; Wang, Jing

    2017-08-01

    A rapid monitoring platform for sensitive voltammetric detection of thiamethoxam residues is reported in the present study. A β-cyclodextrin-reduced graphene oxide composite was used as a reinforcing material in electrochemical determination of thiamethoxam. Compared with bare glassy carbon electrodes, the reduction peak currents of thiamethoxam at reduced graphene oxide/glassy carbon electrode and β-cyclodextrin-reduced graphene oxide/glassy carbon electrode were increased by 70- and 124-fold, respectively. The experimental conditions influencing voltammetric determination of thiamethoxam, such as the amount of β-cyclodextrin-reduced graphene oxide, solution pH, temperature, and accumulation time, were optimized. The reduction mechanism and binding affinity of this material is also discussed. Under optimal conditions, the reduction peak currents increased linearly between 0.5 µM and 16 µM concentration of thiamethoxam. The limit of detection was 0.27 µM on the basis of a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. When the proposed method was applied to brown rice in a recovery test, the recoveries were between 92.20% and 113.75%. The results were in good concordance with the high-performance liquid chromatography method. The proposed method therefore provides a promising and effective platform for sensitive and rapid determination of thiamethoxam. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1991-1997. © 2017 SETAC. © 2017 SETAC.

  1. Reduced graphene oxide mid-infrared photodetector at 300 K

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fernandes, Gustavo E.; Kim, Jin Ho; Oller, Declan

    2015-09-14

    We report on uncooled mid-infrared photovoltaic responses at 300 K arising in heterojunctions of reduced graphene oxide with p-Si. Two major photoresponse spectral peaks are observed, one in the near infrared starting at 1.1 μm corresponding to electron-hole pair generation in the Si substrate, and another at wavelengths below 2.5 μm, arising from properties of the reduced graphene oxide-Si heterojunction. Our analysis of the current-voltage characteristics at various temperatures suggests that the two materials form a type-II (broken-gap) heterojunction, with a characteristic transition between direct tunneling to field emission, to over-the-barrier excitation with increasing reverse voltage. Illumination was found to affect the onsetmore » of the transition between direct tunneling and field-emission, suggesting that the mid infrared response results from the excitation of minority carriers (electrons) from the Si and their collection in the reduced graphene oxide contact. The photoresponse near 1.1 μm showed a time constant at least five times faster than the one at 2.5 μm, which points to surface defects as well as high series resistance and capacitance as potentially limiting factors in this mode of operation. With proper device engineering considerations, these devices could be promising as a graphene-based platform for infrared sensing.« less

  2. Controllably Inducing and Modeling Optical Response from Graphene Oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lombardo, Nicholas; Naumov, Anton

    Graphene, a novel 2-dimensional sp2-hybridized allotrope of Carbon, has unique electrical and mechanical properties. While it is naturally a highly conductive zero band gap semiconductor, graphene does not exhibit optical emission. It has been shown that functionalization with oxygen-containing groups elicits an opening of band gap in graphene. In this work, we aim to induce an optical response in graphene via controlled oxidation, and then explore potential origins of its photoluminescence through mathematical modeling. We employ timed ozone treatment of initially non-fluorescent reduced graphene oxide (RGO) to produce graphene oxide (GO) with specific optical properties. Oxidized material exhibits substantial changes in the absorption spectra and a broad photoluminescence feature, centered at 532 nm, which suggests the appearance of a band gap. We then explore a number of possible mechanisms for the origin of GO photoluminescence via PM3 and ab initio calculations on a functionalized single sheet of graphene. By adjusting modeling parameters to fit experimentally obtained optical transition energies we estimate the size of the sp2 graphitic regions in GO and the arrangement of functional groups that could be responsible for the observed emission.

  3. Novel green synthetic strategy to prepare ZnO nanocrystals using rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) peel extract and its antibacterial applications.

    PubMed

    Yuvakkumar, R; Suresh, J; Nathanael, A Joseph; Sundrarajan, M; Hong, S I

    2014-08-01

    In the present investigation, we report a sustainable novel green synthetic strategy to synthesis zinc oxide nanocrystals. This is the first report on sustainable biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanocrystals employing Nephelium lappaceum L., peel extract as a natural ligation agent. Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanocrystals was carried out via zinc-ellagate complex formation using rambutan peel wastes. The successful formation of zinc oxide nanocrystals was confirmed employing standard characterisation studies. A possible mechanism for the formation of ZnO nanocrystals with rambutan peel extract was also proposed. The prepared ZnO nanocrystals were coated on the cotton fabric and their antibacterial activity were analyzed. ZnO nanocrystals coated cotton showed good antibacterial activity towards Escherichia coli (E. coli), gram negative bacteria and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), gram positive bacteria. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Facile, low temperature synthesis of SnO2/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hou, Chau-Chung; Brahma, Sanjaya; Weng, Shao-Chieh; Chang, Chia-Chin; Huang, Jow-Lay

    2017-08-01

    We demonstrate a facile, single step, low temperature and energy efficient strategy for the synthesis of SnO2-reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite where the crystallization of SnO2 nanoparticles and the reduction of graphene oxide takes place simultaneously by an in situ chemical reduction process. The electrochemical property of the SnO2-RGO composite prepared by using low concentrations of reducing agent shows better Li storage performance, good rate capability (378 mAh g-1 at 3200 mA g-1) and stable capacitance (522 mAh g-1 after 50 cycles). Increasing the reductant concentration lead to crystallization of high concentration of SnO2 nanoparticle aggregation and degrade the Li ion storage property.

  5. Role of oxygen functionality on the band structure evolution and conductance of reduced graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roy, Rajarshi; Thapa, Ranjit; Chakrabarty, Soubhik; Jha, Arunava; Midya, Priyanka R.; Kumar, E. Mathan; Chattopadhyay, Kalyan K.

    2017-06-01

    Here we report, structural and electrical transport properties of reduced graphene oxide as a function of oxygen bonding configuration. We find that mainly epoxy (Csbnd Osbnd C) and carbonyl (Cdbnd O) functional groups remain as major residual components after reduction using three different reducing agents. We calculate the band structure in the presence of epoxy and carbonyl groups and defects. Finally, we calculate the theoretical band mobility and find that it is less for the carbonyl with epoxy system. We correlate the distortion of linear dispersion and opening of bandgap at K-point with conductance for different graphene system in presence of oxygen moieties.

  6. Simultaneous Surface Modification and Chemical Reduction of Graphene Oxide Using Glucose.

    PubMed

    Pan, Hui; Liu, Ruiqi; Li, Guanglong; Wang, Xiaodong; Ding, Tao

    2018-05-01

    In this paper, we develop a simple and facile approach to prepare graphene nanosheets through chemical reduction with glucose as reducing agent and modification agent. The reduced and modified graphene by glucose (denoted as g-rGO) was characterized with techniques of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), etc. It is found that, besides the desired reduction capability to graphene oxide (denoted as GO), glucose plays an important role as a modifying reagent in stabilizing the as-prepared graphene nanosheets simultaneously and the g-rGO exhibits good dispersibility and stability in water and waterborne polyurethane matrix (denoted as WPU). Moreover, the g-rGO can improve evidently the mechanical properties, weather ability and water resistance of WPU.

  7. Synthesis of mesoscale, crumpled, reduced graphene oxide roses by water-in-oil emulsion approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Shruti; Pham, Viet H.; Boscoboinik, Jorge A.; Camino, Fernando; Dickerson, James H.; Tannenbaum, Rina

    2018-05-01

    Mesoscale crumpled graphene oxide roses (GO roses) were synthesized by using colloidal graphene oxide (GO) variants as precursors for a hybrid emulsification-rapid evaporation approach. This process produced rose-like, spherical, reduced mesostructures of colloidal GO sheets, with corrugated surfaces and particle sizes tunable in the range of ∼800 nm to 15 μm. Excellent reproducibility for particle size distribution is shown for each selected speed of homogenizer rotor among different sample batches. The morphology and chemical structure of these produced GO roses was investigated using electron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. The proposed synthesis route provides control over particle size, morphology and chemical properties of the synthesized GO roses.

  8. 3D nanoporous graphene films converted from liquid-crystalline holey graphene oxide for thin and high-performance supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Bin; Liu, Jinzhang; Zhao, Yi; Zheng, Dezhi; Li, Yan; Sha, Jiangbo

    2018-01-01

    Holey graphene oxide (HGO) is prepared and its liquid crystal (LC) formation in water is investigated. The blade-coated LC-HGO hydrogel is hydrothermally reduced to form 3D nanoporous films used as supercapacitor electrodes. Holey graphene sheets are rumpled and interconnected to form a cellular structure with pore size around 100 nm during the reduction process. Reduced HGO films with different thicknesses are integrated into solid-state symmetric supercapacitors and their electrochemical performances are studied. High specific capacitance up to 304 F g-1 and high volumetric capacitance around 400 F cm-3 are achieved from our thin and flexible devices.

  9. Oxidation-assisted graphene heteroepitaxy on copper foil.

    PubMed

    Reckinger, Nicolas; Tang, Xiaohui; Joucken, Frédéric; Lajaunie, Luc; Arenal, Raul; Dubois, Emmanuel; Hackens, Benoît; Henrard, Luc; Colomer, Jean-François

    2016-11-10

    We propose an innovative, easy-to-implement approach to synthesize aligned large-area single-crystalline graphene flakes by chemical vapor deposition on copper foil. This method doubly takes advantage of residual oxygen present in the gas phase. First, by slightly oxidizing the copper surface, we induce grain boundary pinning in copper and, in consequence, the freezing of the thermal recrystallization process. Subsequent reduction of copper under hydrogen suddenly unlocks the delayed reconstruction, favoring the growth of centimeter-sized copper (111) grains through the mechanism of abnormal grain growth. Second, the oxidation of the copper surface also drastically reduces the nucleation density of graphene. This oxidation/reduction sequence leads to the synthesis of aligned millimeter-sized monolayer graphene domains in epitaxial registry with copper (111). The as-grown graphene flakes are demonstrated to be both single-crystalline and of high quality.

  10. Coupled Chiral Structure in Graphene-Based Film for Ultrahigh Thermal Conductivity in Both In-Plane and Through-Plane Directions.

    PubMed

    Meng, Xin; Pan, Hui; Zhu, Chengling; Chen, Zhixin; Lu, Tao; Xu, Da; Li, Yao; Zhu, Shenmin

    2018-06-21

    The development of high-performance thermal management materials to dissipate excessive heat both in plane and through plane is of special interest to maintain efficient operation and prolong the life of electronic devices. Herein, we designed and constructed a graphene-based composite film, which contains chiral liquid crystals (cellulose nanocrystals, CNCs) inside graphene oxide (GO). The composite film was prepared by annealing and compacting of self-assembled GO-CNC, which contains chiral smectic liquid crystal structures. The helical arranged nanorods of carbonized CNC act as in-plane connections, which bridge neighboring graphene sheets. More interestingly, the chiral structures also act as through-plane connections, which bridge the upper and lower graphene layers. As a result, the graphene-based composite film shows extraordinary thermal conductivity, in both in-plane (1820.4 W m -1 K -1 ) and through-plane (4.596 W m -1 K -1 ) directions. As a thermal management material, the heat dissipation and transportation behaviors of the composite film were investigated using a self-heating system and the results showed that the real-time temperature of the heater covered with the film was 44.5 °C lower than a naked heater. The prepared film shows a much higher efficiency of heat transportation than the commonly used thermal conductive Cu foil. Additionally, this graphene-based composite film exhibits excellent mechanical strength of 31.6 MPa and an electrical conductivity of 667.4 S cm -1 . The strategy reported here may open a new avenue to the development of high-performance thermal management films.

  11. A spectrally tunable all-graphene-based flexible field-effect light-emitting device

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Xiaomu; Tian, He; Mohammad, Mohammad Ali; Li, Cheng; Wu, Can; Yang, Yi; Ren, Tian-Ling

    2015-01-01

    The continuous tuning of the emission spectrum of a single light-emitting diode (LED) by an external electrical bias is of great technological significance as a crucial property in high-quality displays, yet this capability has not been demonstrated in existing LEDs. Graphene, a tunable optical platform, is a promising medium to achieve this goal. Here we demonstrate a bright spectrally tunable electroluminescence from blue (∼450 nm) to red (∼750 nm) at the graphene oxide/reduced-graphene oxide interface. We explain the electroluminescence results from the recombination of Poole–Frenkel emission ionized electrons at the localized energy levels arising from semi-reduced graphene oxide, and holes from the top of the π band. Tuning of the emission wavelength is achieved by gate modulation of the participating localized energy levels. Our demonstration of current-driven tunable LEDs not only represents a method for emission wavelength tuning but also may find applications in high-quality displays. PMID:26178323

  12. Direct observation of spatially heterogeneous single-layer graphene oxide reduction kinetics.

    PubMed

    McDonald, Matthew P; Eltom, Ahmed; Vietmeyer, Felix; Thapa, Janak; Morozov, Yurii V; Sokolov, Denis A; Hodak, Jose H; Vinodgopal, Kizhanipuram; Kamat, Prashant V; Kuno, Masaru

    2013-01-01

    Graphene oxide (GO) is an important precursor in the production of chemically derived graphene. During reduction, GO's electrical conductivity and band gap change gradually. Doping and chemical functionalization are also possible, illustrating GO's immense potential in creating functional devices through control of its local hybridization. Here we show that laser-induced photolysis controllably reduces individual single-layer GO sheets. The reaction can be followed in real time through sizable decreases in GO's photoluminescence efficiency along with spectral blueshifts. As-produced reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets undergo additional photolysis, characterized by dramatic emission enhancements and spectral redshifts. Both GO's reduction and subsequent conversion to photobrightened rGO are captured through movies of their photoluminescence kinetics. Rate maps illustrate sizable spatial and temporal heterogeneities in sp(2) domain growth and reveal how reduction "flows" across GO and rGO sheets. The observed heterogeneous reduction kinetics provides mechanistic insight into GO's conversion to chemically derived graphene and highlights opportunities for overcoming its dynamic, chemical disorder.

  13. Graphene-Based Materials for Biosensors: A Review

    PubMed Central

    Suvarnaphaet, Phitsini; Pechprasarn, Suejit

    2017-01-01

    The advantages conferred by the physical, optical and electrochemical properties of graphene-based nanomaterials have contributed to the current variety of ultrasensitive and selective biosensor devices. In this review, we present the points of view on the intrinsic properties of graphene and its surface engineering concerned with the transduction mechanisms in biosensing applications. We explain practical synthesis techniques along with prospective properties of the graphene-based materials, which include the pristine graphene and functionalized graphene (i.e., graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and graphene quantum dot (GQD). The biosensing mechanisms based on the utilization of the charge interactions with biomolecules and/or nanoparticle interactions and sensing platforms are also discussed, and the importance of surface functionalization in recent up-to-date biosensors for biological and medical applications. PMID:28934118

  14. The investigation on the structure, fabrication and applications of graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Du, Donghe

    By investigating the structure of graphene oxide (GO), the long-wavelength photoluminescence of GO is evidenced to be originated from the excimer formation between GO basal plane and oxidative debris (ODs) attached on the GO sheets. The thermally unstable ODs would induce micro-explosion of GO upon heating. A novel method is developed to supress the explosion and achieve simultaneous thermal reduction and nitrogen doping of graphene oxide in air. The high quality N-doped graphene demonstrate excellent electrocatalytic property in oxygen reduction reaction. Furthermore, an electronic textile material is fabricated by coating chemically reduced GO on a piece of non-woven fabric (GNWF). GNWF can be applied as wearable sensors to detect physiological signals of human body. This research work deepens the understanding on the structure and property of graphene based materials and provides a cost-effective fabrication method for large scale production of graphene, and hence facilitates the commercialization of graphene.

  15. A green method to prepare Pd-Ag nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide and their electrochemical catalysis of methanol and ethanol oxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Lingzhi; Chen, Mingxi; Huang, Guanbo; Yang, Nian; Zhang, Li; Wang, Huan; Liu, Yu; Wang, Wei; Gao, Jianping

    2014-10-01

    Bimetallic palladium-silver nanoparticles (NPs) supported on reduced oxide graphene (RGO) with different Pd/Ag ratios (Pd-Ag/RGO) were prepared by an easy green method which did not use any additional reducing agents or a dispersing agent. During the process, simultaneous redox reactions between AgNO3, K2PdCl4 and graphene oxide (GO) led to bimetallic Pd-Ag NPs. The morphology and composition of the Pd-Ag/RGO were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Raman spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry were used to investigate the electrochemical activities and stabilities of these Pd-Ag/RGO catalysts for the electro-oxidation of methanol and ethanol in alkaline media. Among the different Pd/Ag ratios, the Pd-Ag (1:1)/RGO had the best catalytic activities and stability. So it is a promising catalyst for direct alcohol fuel cell applications.

  16. R6G molecule induced modulation of the optical properties of reduced graphene oxide nanosheets for use in ultrasensitive SPR sensing

    PubMed Central

    Xue, Tianyu; Yu, Shansheng; Zhang, Xiaoming; Zhang, Xinzheng; Wang, Lei; Bao, Qiaoliang; Chen, Caiyun; Zheng, Weitao; Cui, Xiaoqiang

    2016-01-01

    A proper understanding of the role that molecular doping plays is essential to research on the modulation of the optical and electronic properties of graphene. The adsorption of R6G molecules onto defect-rich reduced graphene oxide nanosheets results in a shift of the Fermi energy and, consequently, a variation in the optical constants. This optical variation in the graphene nanosheets is used to develop an ultrasensitive surface plasmon resonance biosensor with a detection limit of 10−17 M (0.01 fM) at the molecular level. A density functional theory calculation shows that covalent bonds were formed between the R6G molecules and the defect sites on the graphene nanosheets. Our study reveals the important role that defects play in tailoring the properties and sensor device applications of graphene materials. PMID:26887525

  17. Flexible graphene/carbon nanotube hybrid papers chemical-reduction-tailored by gallic acid for high-performance electrochemical capacitive energy storages

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yao, Lu; Zhou, Chao; Hu, Nantao; Hu, Jing; Hong, Min; Zhang, Liying; Zhang, Yafei

    2018-03-01

    Mechanically robust graphene papers with both high gravimetric and volumetric capacitances are desired for high-performance energy storages. However, it's still a challenge to tailor the structure of graphene papers in order to meet this requirement. In this work, a kind of chemical-reduction-tailored mechanically-robust reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanotube hybrid paper has been reported for high-performance electrochemical capacitive energy storages. Gallic acid (GA), as an excellent reducing agent, was used to reduce graphene oxide. Through vacuum filtration of gallic acid reduced graphene oxide (GA-rGO) and carboxylic multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) aqueous suspensions, mechanically robust GA-rGO/MWCNTs hybrid papers were obtained. The resultant hybrid papers showed high gravimetric capacitance of 337.6 F g-1 (0.5 A g-1) and volumetric capacitance of 151.2 F cm-3 (0.25 A cm-3). In addition, the assembled symmetric device based on the hybrid papers exhibited high gravimetric capacitance of 291.6 F g-1 (0.5 A g-1) and volumetric capacitance of 136.6 F cm-3 (0.25 A cm-3). Meanwhile, it exhibited excellent rate capability and cycling stability. Above all, this chemical reduction tailoring technique and the resultant high-performance GA-rGO/MWCNTs hybrid papers give an insight for designing high-performance electrodes and hold a great potential in the field of energy storages.

  18. Light-emitting diodes based on solution-processed nontoxic quantum dots: oxides as carrier-transport layers and introducing molybdenum oxide nanoparticles as a hole-inject layer.

    PubMed

    Bhaumik, Saikat; Pal, Amlan J

    2014-07-23

    We report fabrication and characterization of solution-processed quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QDLEDs) based on a layer of nontoxic and Earth-abundant zinc-diffused silver indium disulfide (AIZS) nanoparticles as an emitting material. In the QDLEDs fabricated on indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass substrates, we use layers of oxides, such as graphene oxide (GO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles as a hole- and electron-transport layer, respectively. In addition, we introduce a layer of MoO3 nanoparticles as a hole-inject one. We report a comparison of the characteristics of different device architectures. We show that an inverted device architecture, ITO/ZnO/AIZS/GO/MoO3/Al, yields a higher electroluminescence (EL) emission, compared to direct ones, for three reasons: (1) the GO/MoO3 layers introduce barriers for electrons to reach the Al electrode, and, similarly, the ZnO layers acts as a barrier for holes to travel to the ITO electrode; (2) the introduction of a layer of MoO3 nanoparticles as a hole-inject layer reduces the barrier height for holes and thereby balances charge injection in the inverted structure; and (3) the wide-bandgap zinc oxide next to the ITO electrode does not absorb the EL emission during its exit from the device. In the QDLEDs with oxides as carrier inject and transport layers, the EL spectrum resembles the photoluminescence emission of the emitting material (AIZS), implying that excitons are formed in the quaternary nanocrystals and decay radiatively.

  19. Bioapplications of graphene constructed functional nanomaterials.

    PubMed

    Gulzar, Arif; Yang, Piaoping; He, Fei; Xu, Jiating; Yang, Dan; Xu, Liangge; Jan, Mohammad Omar

    2017-01-25

    Graphene has distinctive mechanical, electronic, and optical properties, which researchers have applied to develop innovative electronic materials including transparent conductors and ultrafast transistors. Lately, the understanding of various chemical properties of graphene has expedited its application in high-performance devices that generate and store energy. Graphene is now increasing its terrain outside electronic and chemical applications toward biomedical areas such as precise bio sensing through graphene-quenched fluorescence, graphene-enhanced cell differentiation and growth, and graphene-assisted laser desorption/ionization for mass spectrometry. In this Account, we evaluate recent efforts to apply graphene and graphene oxides (GO) to biomedical research and a few different approaches to prepare graphene materials designed for biomedical applications and a brief perspective on their future applications. Because of its outstanding aqueous processability, amphiphilicity, surface functionalizability, surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), and fluorescence quenching ability, GO chemically exfoliated from oxidized graphite is considered a promising material for biological applications. In addition, the hydrophobicity and flexibility of large-area graphene synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) allow this material to play an important role in cell growth and differentiation. Graphene is considered to be an encouraging and smart candidate for numerous biomedical applications such as NIR-responsive cancer therapy and fluorescence bio-imaging and drug delivery. To that end, suitable preparation and unique approaches to utilize graphene-based materials such as graphene oxides (GOs), reduced graphene oxides (rGOs), and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) in biology and medical science are gaining growing interest. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Reduced graphene oxide-ZnO composites based gas sensors: A review

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Thakare, N. B.; Raghuwanshi, F. C.; Kalyamwar, V. S.; Tamgadge, Y. S.

    2018-05-01

    The need to monitor and control life threatening gases has led to research and development of a wide variety of sensors using different materials and technologies. Recently rGO (reduced graphene oxide)-MOS (Metal Oxide Semiconductor) architectures have been studied for efficient and cost effective gas sensors that will operate at low temperature. In this review paper, we review latest findings and progress in rGO-ZnO composites as sensors to detect volatile and toxic gases.

  1. Plasma-induced highly efficient synthesis of boron doped reduced graphene oxide for supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Li, Shaobo; Wang, Zhaofeng; Jiang, Hanmei; Zhang, Limei; Ren, Jingzheng; Zheng, Mingtao; Dong, Lichun; Sun, Luyi

    2016-09-21

    In this work, we presented a novel route to synthesize boron doped reduced graphene oxide (rGO) by using the dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma technology under ambient conditions. The doping of boron (1.4 at%) led to a significant improvement in the capacitance of rGO and supercapacitors based on the as-synthesized B-rGO exhibited an outstanding specific capacitance.

  2. Correction: One-step coelectrodeposition-assisted layer-by-layer assembly of gold nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide and its self-healing three-dimensional nanohybrid for an ultrasensitive DNA sensor.

    PubMed

    Jayakumar, Kumarasamy; Camarada, María Belén; Dharuman, Venkataraman; Ju, Huangxian; Dey, Ramendra Sundar; Wen, Yangping

    2018-02-01

    Correction for 'One-step coelectrodeposition-assisted layer-by-layer assembly of gold nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide and its self-healing three-dimensional nanohybrid for an ultrasensitive DNA sensor' by Jayakumar Kumarasamy, et al., Nanoscale, 2018, DOI: 10.1039/c7nr06952a.

  3. Redox reaction between graphene oxide and In powder to prepare In2O3/reduced graphene oxide hybrids for supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Xiaoyang; Wu, Tao; Xia, Fengling; Li, Yi; Zhang, Congcong; Zhang, Lei; Chen, Mingxi; Li, Xichuan; Zhang, Li; Liu, Yu; Gao, Jianping

    2014-11-01

    A facile and quick route for the chemical reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using In powder as a reductant has been established. The reduction of GO by In powder is traced by UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, and the obtained reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is analyzed. The In3+ ions produced during the reaction between the GO and the In powder are chemically transformed to In2O3 and then form In2O3/rGO hybrids. The In2O3/rGO hybrids are used as electrode materials and their electrochemical performance are studied using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge. The In2O3/rGO hybrids demonstrate excellent electrochemical performance and their highest specific capacitance is 178.8 F g-1 which is much higher than that of either In2O3 or rGO. In addition, the In2O3/rGO hybrids are also very stable.

  4. Infrared photodetectors based on reduced graphene oxide nanoparticles and graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmad, H.; Tajdidzadeh, M.; Thambiratnam, K.; Yasin, M.

    2018-06-01

    Two photodiode (PD) designs incorporating graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are proposed and fabricated. Both PDs have 50 mm thick silver electrodes deposited on the active area, and another electrode consisting of either GO or rGO nanoparticles (NPs). The GO and rGO NPs are deposited onto the p-type silicon substrate by the drop casting method. Both fabricated PDs show good sensitivity and quick responses under 974 nm laser illumination at 150 mW. The photoresponsivity values and external quantum efficiency of both photodetectors are measured to be approximately 800 µAw‑1 and 0.12% for the GO based PD and 1.6 m Aw‑1 and 0.20% for the rGO based PD. Both PDs also have response and recovery times of 114 µs and 276 µs as well as 11 µs and 678 µs for the GO and rGO based PDs respectively. The proposed PDs would have significant applications in many optoelectronic devices as well as nanoelectronics.

  5. The effects of annealing temperature on the permittivity and electromagnetic attenuation performance of reduced graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Fan; Zeng, Qiao; Xia, Yilu; Sun, Mengxiao; Xie, Aming

    2018-05-01

    Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) has been prepared through the thermal reduction method with different annealing temperatures to explore the effects of temperature on the permittivity and electromagnetic attenuation performance. The real and imaginary parts of permittivity increase along with the decrease in the oxygen functional group and the increase in the filler loading ratio. A composite only loaded with 1 wt. % of RGO can possess an effective electromagnetic absorption bandwidth of 7.60 GHz, when graphene oxide was reduced under 300 °C for 2 h. With the annealing temperature increased to 700 °C and the well reduced RGO loaded 7 wt. % in the composite, the electromagnetic interference shielding efficiency can get higher than 35 dB from 2 to 18 GHz. This study shows that controlling the oxygen functional groups on the RGO surface can also obtain an ideal electromagnetic attenuation performance without any other decorated nanomaterials.

  6. Enhanced thermal diffusivity of copperbased composites using copper-RGO sheets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Sangwoo; Kwon, Hyouk-Chon; Lee, Dohyung; Lee, Hyo-Soo

    2017-11-01

    The synthesis of copper-reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets was investigated in order to control the agglutination of interfaces and develop a manufacturing process for copper-based composite materials based on spark plasma sintering. To this end, copper-GO (graphene oxide) composites were synthesized using a hydrothermal method, while the copper-reduced graphene oxide composites were made by hydrogen reduction. Graphene oxide-copper oxide was hydrothermally synthesized at 80 °C for 5 h, and then annealed at 800 °C for 5 h in argon and hydrazine rate 9:1 to obtain copper-RGO flakes. The morphology and structure of these copper-RGO sheets were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. After vibratory mixing of the synthesized copper-RGO composites (0-2 wt%) with copper powder, they were sintered at 600 °C for 5 min under100 MPa of pressure by spark plasma sintering process. The thermal diffusivity of the resulting sintered composite was characterized by the laser flash method at 150 °C.

  7. Synthesis and characterization of MnS2/reduced graphene oxide nanohybrids for with photocatalytic and antibacterial activity.

    PubMed

    Fakhri, Ali; Kahi, Delaram Salehpour

    2017-01-01

    A facile one-step hydrothermal route was developed here to prepare MnS 2 /reduced graphene oxide nanohybrids. The crystal morphologies could be controlled by adjusting the solvent, surfactant, and pH of the precursor solution. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-Vis absorption spectra, and photoluminescence spectra (PL), were used to characterize the structures of the samples were used to characterize the structures of the samples, and the specific surface area was determined using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method. The thickness of the MnS 2 nanoparticles and MnS 2 /reduced graphene oxide nanohybrids were measured to be about 20 and 5nm, respectively. The total pore volume and specific surface area were 0.540 and 1.173cm 3 g -1 and 45.91 and 98.23m 2 g -1 for pure MnS 2 and MnS 2 /r-GO hybrids, respectively. Carbophenothion as an insecticide photodegradation was used to estimate the photocatalytic activity of the MnS 2 /reduced graphene oxide nanohybrids morphologies under UV light. The Carbophenothion hardly decomposed during photolysis over a period of 45min. The rate constant, k value, for the photocatalysis of Carbophenothion by MnS 2 /reduced graphene oxide nanohybrids under UV light radiation is 0.134min -1 . The antibacterial properties of the nanohybrids were evaluated by determining their minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC), using a broth microdilution assay for Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. The MIC and MBC values are 4.0 and 32.0μg/mL. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Mesoporous anatase TiO{sub 2}/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites: A simple template-free synthesis and their high photocatalytic performance

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhou, Qi; Zhong, Yong-Hui; Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Environmental Detection, Hefei Institute of Physical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031

    2014-03-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Mesoporous TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles with anatase phase were assembled on reduced graphene oxide via a template-free one-step hydrothermal method. • The TiO{sub 2}/rGO nanocomposites have better adsorption capacity and photocatalytic degradation efficiency for dyes removal. • Improved dye adsorption and photogenerated charge separation are responsible for enhanced activity. - Abstract: Mesoporous anatase phase TiO{sub 2} was assembled on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using a template-free one-step hydrothermal process. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area.more » Morphology of TiO{sub 2} was related to the content of graphene oxide. TiO{sub 2}/rGO nanocomposites exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity for the photo-degradation of methyl orange. The degradation rate was 4.5 times greater than that of pure TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. This difference was attributed to the thin two-dimensional graphene sheet. The graphene sheet had a large surface area, high adsorption capacity, and acted as a good electron acceptor for the transfer of photo-generated electrons from the conduction band of TiO{sub 2}. The enhanced surface adsorption characteristics and excellent charge transport separation were independent properties of the photocatalytic degradation process.« less

  9. Ag(I)-bovine serum albumin hydrosol-mediated formation of Ag3PO4/reduced graphene oxide composites for visible-light degradation of Rhodamine B solution.

    PubMed

    Ma, Peiyan; Chen, Anliang; Wu, Yan; Fu, Zhengyi; Kong, Wei; Che, Liyuan; Ma, Ruifang

    2014-03-01

    A cost-effective Ag(I)-bovine serum albumin (BSA) supramolecular hydrosol strategy was utilized to assemble Ag3PO4 nanospheres onto reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets. The obtained composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Compared with the pure Ag3PO4 crystals and Ag3PO4 particles prepared with Ag(I)-BSA hydrosol as precursor, the Ag3PO4/rGO composites obtained with different content of graphene oxide indicated improved visible-light-driven photocatalysis activity for the decomposition of Rhodamine B aqueous solution. The results pointed to the possibility of synthesizing graphene-based photocatalysts by metal ion-BSA hydrosol. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Preparation of highly conductive, transparent, and flexible graphene/silver nanowires substrates using non-thermal laser photoreduction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anis, Badawi; Mostafa, A. M.; El Sayed, Z. A.; Khalil, A. S. G.; Abouelsayed, A.

    2018-07-01

    We present the preparation of highly conducting, transparent, and flexible reduced graphene oxide/silver nanowires (rGO/SNWs) substrates using non-thermal laser photoreduction method. High quality monolayers graphene oxide (GO) solution has been prepared by the chemical oxidation of thermally expanded large area natural graphite. Silver nanowires was prepared by using the typical polyol method. Uniform hybrid GO/silver nanowires (GO/SNWs) was prepared by growing the nanowires from silver nuclei in the presence of GO. Uniform and high-quality rGO/SNWs thin films were prepared using a dip-coating technique and were reduced to highly electrically conductive graphene and transparent conductive films using non-thermal laser scribe method. The laser scribed rGO/SNWs hybrid film exhibited 80% transparency with 70 Ω □-1 after 20 min of dipping in GO/SNWs solution.

  11. The mechanistic exploration of porous activated graphene sheets-anchored SnO2 nanocrystals for application in high-performance Li-ion battery anodes.

    PubMed

    Yang, Yingchang; Ji, Xiaobo; Lu, Fang; Chen, Qiyuan; Banks, Craig E

    2013-09-28

    Porous activated graphene sheets have been for the first time exploited herein as encapsulating substrates for lithium ion battery (LIB) anodes. The as-fabricated SnO2 nanocrystals-porous activated graphene sheet (AGS) composite electrode exhibits improved electrochemical performance as an anode material for LIBs, such as better cycle performance and higher rate capability in comparison with graphene sheets, activated graphene sheets, bare SnO2 and SnO2-graphene sheet composites. The superior electrochemical performances of the designed anode can be ascribed to the porous AGS substrate, which improves the electrical conductivity of the electrode, inhibits agglomeration between particles and effectively buffers the strain from the volume variation during Li(+)-intercalation-de-intercalation and provides more cross-plane diffusion channels for Li(+) ions. As a result, the designed anode exhibits an outstanding capacity of up to 610 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 100 mA g(-1) after 50 cycles and a good rate performance of 889, 747, 607, 482 and 372 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 2000 mA g(-1), respectively. This work is of importance for energy storage as it provides a new substrate for the design and implementation of next-generation LIBs exhibiting exceptional electrochemical performances.

  12. Anchoring Fe3O4 nanoparticles in a reduced graphene oxide aerogel matrix via polydopamine coating

    PubMed Central

    Mrówczyński, Radosław; Michalak, Natalia; Załęski, Karol; Matczak, Michał; Kempiński, Mateusz; Pietralik, Zuzanna; Lewandowski, Mikołaj; Jurga, Stefan; Stobiecki, Feliks

    2018-01-01

    Reduced graphene oxide–magnetite hybrid aerogels attract great interest thanks to their potential applications, e.g., as magnetic actuators. However, the tendency of magnetite particles to migrate within the matrix and, ultimately, escape from the aerogel structure, remains a technological challenge. In this article we show that coating magnetite particles with polydopamine anchors them on graphene oxide defects, immobilizing the particles in the matrix and, at the same time, improving the aerogel structure. Polydopamine coating does not affect the magnetic properties of magnetite particles, making the fabricated materials promising for industrial applications. PMID:29527434

  13. Reduced graphene oxide aerogel networks with soft interfacial template for applications in bone tissue regeneration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Asha, S.; Ananth, A. Nimrodh; Jose, Sujin P.; Rajan, M. A. Jothi

    2018-05-01

    Reduced Graphene Oxide aerogels (A-RGO), functionalized with chitosan, were found to induce and/or accelerate the mineralization of hydroxyapatite. The functionalized chitosan acts as a soft interfacial template on the surface of A-RGO assisting the growth of hydroxyapatite particles. The mineralization on these soft aerogel networks was performed by soaking the aerogels in simulated body fluid, relative to time. Polymer-induced mineralization exhibited an ordered arrangement of hydroxyapatite particles on reduced graphene oxide aerogel networks with a higher crystalline index (IC) of 1.7, which mimics the natural bone formation indicating the importance of the polymeric interfacial template. These mineralized aerogels which mimic the structure and composition of natural bone exhibit relatively higher rate of cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and osteoid matrix formation proving it to be a potential scaffold for bone tissue regeneration.

  14. Preparation of surface modified TiO2/rGO microspheres and application in the photocatalytic decomposition of oleic acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Xin; Zeng, Min; Tong, Xiaoling; Li, Fuyun; Xu, Youyou

    2018-05-01

    The comprehensive utilization of waste cooking oil is an important research topic in food science. In this study, the surface modified mesoporous anatase TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) microspheres with a high specific surface area have been successfully synthesized, through hydrothermal routes and hydrazine reduced graphene oxide. The photocatalytic decomposition of waste rapeseed oil has also been studied using TiO2/rGO microspheres as photocatalyst. The result shows that the reduced graphene oxide in these nanocomposites can act as adsorbent and photocatalyst, and the temperature and the oxygen amount also are the most important factors affecting the oleic acid decomposition products. There interesting results not only helpful for the study of the mechanism of photocatalytic, but also useful for the rational use of waste cooking oil.

  15. Beyond graphene: Electrochemical sensors and biosensors for biomarkers detection.

    PubMed

    Bollella, Paolo; Fusco, Giovanni; Tortolini, Cristina; Sanzò, Gabriella; Favero, Gabriele; Gorton, Lo; Antiochia, Riccarda

    2017-03-15

    Graphene's success has stimulated great interest and research in the synthesis and characterization of graphene-like 2D materials, single and few-atom-thick layers of van der Waals materials, which show fascinating and technologically useful properties. This review presents an overview of recent electrochemical sensors and biosensors based on graphene and on graphene-like 2D materials for biomarkers detection. Initially, we will outline different electrochemical sensors and biosensors based on chemically derived graphene, including graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, properly functionalized for improved performances and we will discuss the various strategies to prepare graphene modified electrodes. Successively, we present electrochemical sensors and biosensors based on graphene-like 2D materials, such as boron nitride (BN), graphite-carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4 ), transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), transition metal oxides and graphane, outlining how the new modified 2D nanomaterials will improve the electrochemical performances. Finally, we will compare the results obtained with different sensors and biosensors for the detection of important biomarkers such as glucose, hydrogen peroxide and cancer biomarkers and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of the use of graphene and graphene-like 2D materials in different sensing platforms. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Graphene and water-based elastomers thin-film composites by dip-moulding.

    PubMed

    Iliut, Maria; Silva, Claudio; Herrick, Scott; McGlothlin, Mark; Vijayaraghavan, Aravind

    2016-09-01

    Thin-film elastomers (elastic polymers) have a number of technologically significant applications ranging from sportswear to medical devices. In this work, we demonstrate that graphene can be used to reinforce 20 micron thin elastomer films, resulting in over 50% increase in elastic modulus at a very low loading of 0.1 wt%, while also increasing the elongation to failure. This loading is below the percolation threshold for electrical conductivity. We demonstrate composites with both graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, the reduction being undertaken in-situ or ex-situ using a biocompatible reducing agent in ascorbic acid. The ultrathin films were cast by dip moulding. The transparency of the elastomer films allows us to use optical microscopy image and confirm the uniform distribution as well as the conformation of the graphene flakes within the composite.

  17. A comparison of nitrogen-doped sonoelectrochemical and chemical graphene nanosheets as hydrogen peroxide sensors.

    PubMed

    Wu, Yi-Shan; Liu, Zhe-Ting; Wang, Tzu-Pei; Hsu, Su-Yang; Lee, Chien-Liang

    2018-04-01

    Nitrogen-doped graphene nanosheet (N-SEGN) with pyrrolic nitrogen and 5-9 vacancy defects has been successfully prepared from a hydrothermal reaction of tetra-2-pyridinylpyrazine and sonoelectrochemistry-exfoliated graphene nanosheet, with point defects. Additionally, based on the same reaction using chemically reduced graphene oxide, nitrogen-doped chemically reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO) with graphitic nitrogen was prepared. The N-SEGN and N-rGO were used as a non-enzymatic H 2 O 2 sensors. The sensitivity of the N-SEGN was 231.3 μA·mM -1 ·cm -2 , much greater than 57.3 μA·mM -1 ·cm -2 of N-rGO. The N-SEGN showed their potential for being a H 2 O 2 sensor. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Reduction of graphene oxide by resveratrol: a novel and simple biological method for the synthesis of an effective anticancer nanotherapeutic molecule

    PubMed Central

    Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi; Han, Jae Woong; Kim, Eun Su; Park, Jung Hyun; Kim, Jin-Hoi

    2015-01-01

    Objective Graphene represents a monolayer or a few layers of sp2-bonded carbon atoms with a honeycomb lattice structure. Unique physical, chemical, and biological properties of graphene have attracted great interest in various fields including electronics, energy, material industry, and medicine, where it is used for tissue engineering and scaffolding, drug delivery, and as an antibacterial and anticancer agent. However, graphene cytotoxicity for ovarian cancer cells is still not fully investigated. The objective of this study was to synthesize graphene using a natural polyphenol compound resveratrol and to investigate its toxicity for ovarian cancer cells. Methods The successful reduction of graphene oxide (GO) to graphene was confirmed by UV-vis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy were employed to evaluate particle size and surface morphology of GO and resveratrol-reduced GO (RES-rGO). Raman spectroscopy was used to determine the removal of oxygen-containing functional groups from GO surface and to ensure the formation of graphene. We also performed a comprehensive analysis of GO and RES-rGO cytotoxicity by examining the morphology, viability, membrane integrity, activation of caspase-3, apoptosis, and alkaline phosphatase activity of ovarian cancer cells. Results The results also show that resveratrol effectively reduced GO to graphene and the properties of RES-rGO nanosheets were comparable to those of chemically reduced graphene. Biological experiments showed that GO and RES-rGO caused a dose-dependent membrane leakage and oxidative stress in cancer cells, and reduced their viability via apoptosis confirmed by the upregulation of apoptosis executioner caspase-3. Conclusion Our data demonstrate a single, simple green approach for the synthesis of highly water-dispersible functionalized graphene nanosheets, suggesting a possibility of replacing toxic hydrazine by a natural and safe phenolic compound resveratrol, which has similar efficacy in the reduction of GO to rGO. Resveratrol-based GO reduction would facilitate large-scale production of graphene-based materials for the emerging graphene-based technologies and biomedical applications. PMID:25931821

  19. Green and Mild Oxidation: An Efficient Strategy toward Water-Dispersible Graphene.

    PubMed

    You, Xiaofei; Yang, Siwei; Li, Jipeng; Deng, Yuan; Dai, Lianqi; Peng, Xiong; Huang, Haoguang; Sun, Jing; Wang, Gang; He, Peng; Ding, Guqiao; Xie, Xiaoming

    2017-01-25

    Scalable fabrication of water-dispersible graphene (W-Gr) is highly desirable yet technically challenging for most practical applications of graphene. Herein, a green and mild oxidation strategy to prepare bulk W-Gr (dispersion, slurry, and powder) with high yield was proposed by fully exploiting structure defects of thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRGO) and oxidizing radicals generated from hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). Owing to the increased carboxyl group from the mild oxidation process, the obtained W-Gr can be redispersed in low-boiling solvents with a reasonable concentration. Benefiting from the modified surface chemistry, macroscopic samples processed from the W-Gr show good hydrophilicity (water contact angle of 55.7°) and excellent biocompatibility, which is expected to be an alternative biomaterial for bone, vessel, and skin regeneration. In addition, the green and mild oxidation strategy is also proven to be effective for dispersing other carbon nanomaterials in a water system.

  20. Evidence of nanocrystalline semiconducting graphene monoxide during thermal reduction of graphene oxide in vacuum.

    PubMed

    Mattson, Eric C; Pu, Haihui; Cui, Shumao; Schofield, Marvin A; Rhim, Sonny; Lu, Ganhua; Nasse, Michael J; Ruoff, Rodney S; Weinert, Michael; Gajdardziska-Josifovska, Marija; Chen, Junhong; Hirschmugl, Carol J

    2011-12-27

    As silicon-based electronics are reaching the nanosize limits of the semiconductor roadmap, carbon-based nanoelectronics has become a rapidly growing field, with great interest in tuning the properties of carbon-based materials. Chemical functionalization is a proposed route, but syntheses of graphene oxide (G-O) produce disordered, nonstoichiometric materials with poor electronic properties. We report synthesis of an ordered, stoichiometric, solid-state carbon oxide that has never been observed in nature and coexists with graphene. Formation of this material, graphene monoxide (GMO), is achieved by annealing multilayered G-O. Our results indicate that the resulting thermally reduced G-O (TRG-O) consists of a two-dimensional nanocrystalline phase segregation: unoxidized graphitic regions are separated from highly oxidized regions of GMO. GMO has a quasi-hexagonal unit cell, an unusually high 1:1 O:C ratio, and a calculated direct band gap of ∼0.9 eV.

  1. Porous carbon nanotube/graphene composites for high-performance supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Jing; Tang, Jie; Yuan, Jinshi; Zhang, Kun; Yu, Xiaoliang; Sun, Yige; Zhang, Han; Qin, Lu-Chang

    2018-02-01

    Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an effective spacer to prevent the re-stacking of graphene layers. However, the aggregation of CNTs always reduces the specific surface area of resulting CNT/graphene composites. Meanwhile, different pores always have different contributions to the specific capacitance. In this study, CNT/graphene composites with different porous structures are synthesized by co-reduction of oxidized CNTs and graphene oxide with different mixing ratios. With an optimized CNT content of 20%, the CNT/graphene composite shows 206 F g-1 in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate electrolyte. It is found that pores larger than twice the size of electrolyte ions can make greater contributions to the specific capacitance.

  2. Solid-phase electrochemical reduction of graphene oxide films in alkaline solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Basirun, Wan J.; Sookhakian, Mehran; Baradaran, Saeid; Mahmoudian, Mohammad R.; Ebadi, Mehdi

    2013-09-01

    Graphene oxide (GO) film was evaporated onto graphite and used as an electrode to produce electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) films by electrochemical reduction in 6 M KOH solution through voltammetric cycling. Fourier transformed infrared and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of ERGO. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy characterization of ERGO and GO films in ferrocyanide/ferricyanide redox couple with 0.1 M KCl supporting electrolyte gave results that are in accordance with previous reports. Based on the EIS results, ERGO shows higher capacitance and lower charge transfer resistance compared to GO.

  3. Ion sieving in graphene oxide membranes via cationic control of interlayer spacing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Liang; Shi, Guosheng; Shen, Jie; Peng, Bingquan; Zhang, Bowu; Wang, Yuzhu; Bian, Fenggang; Wang, Jiajun; Li, Deyuan; Qian, Zhe; Xu, Gang; Liu, Gongping; Zeng, Jianrong; Zhang, Lijuan; Yang, Yizhou; Zhou, Guoquan; Wu, Minghong; Jin, Wanqin; Li, Jingye; Fang, Haiping

    2017-10-01

    Graphene oxide membranes—partially oxidized, stacked sheets of graphene—can provide ultrathin, high-flux and energy-efficient membranes for precise ionic and molecular sieving in aqueous solution. These materials have shown potential in a variety of applications, including water desalination and purification, gas and ion separation, biosensors, proton conductors, lithium-based batteries and super-capacitors. Unlike the pores of carbon nanotube membranes, which have fixed sizes, the pores of graphene oxide membranes—that is, the interlayer spacing between graphene oxide sheets (a sheet is a single flake inside the membrane)—are of variable size. Furthermore, it is difficult to reduce the interlayer spacing sufficiently to exclude small ions and to maintain this spacing against the tendency of graphene oxide membranes to swell when immersed in aqueous solution. These challenges hinder the potential ion filtration applications of graphene oxide membranes. Here we demonstrate cationic control of the interlayer spacing of graphene oxide membranes with ångström precision using K+, Na+, Ca2+, Li+ or Mg2+ ions. Moreover, membrane spacings controlled by one type of cation can efficiently and selectively exclude other cations that have larger hydrated volumes. First-principles calculations and ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy reveal that the location of the most stable cation adsorption is where oxide groups and aromatic rings coexist. Previous density functional theory computations show that other cations (Fe2+, Co2+, Cu2+, Cd2+, Cr2+ and Pb2+) should have a much stronger cation-π interaction with the graphene sheet than Na+ has, suggesting that other ions could be used to produce a wider range of interlayer spacings.

  4. Visualizing chemical states and defects induced magnetism of graphene oxide by spatially-resolved-X-ray microscopy and spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Wang, Y F; Singh, Shashi B; Limaye, Mukta V; Shao, Y C; Hsieh, S H; Chen, L Y; Hsueh, H C; Wang, H T; Chiou, J W; Yeh, Y C; Chen, C W; Chen, C H; Ray, Sekhar C; Wang, J; Pong, W F; Takagi, Y; Ohigashi, T; Yokoyama, T; Kosugi, N

    2015-10-20

    This investigation studies the various magnetic behaviors of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxides (rGOs) and elucidates the relationship between the chemical states that involve defects therein and their magnetic behaviors in GO sheets. Magnetic hysteresis loop reveals that the GO is ferromagnetic whereas photo-thermal moderately reduced graphene oxide (M-rGO) and heavily reduced graphene oxide (H-rGO) gradually become paramagnetic behavior at room temperature. Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy and corresponding X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy were utilized to investigate thoroughly the variation of the C 2p(π*) states that are bound with oxygen-containing and hydroxyl groups, as well as the C 2p(σ*)-derived states in flat and wrinkle regions to clarify the relationship between the spatially-resolved chemical states and the magnetism of GO, M-rGO and H-rGO. The results of X-ray magnetic circular dichroism further support the finding that C 2p(σ*)-derived states are the main origin of the magnetism of GO. Based on experimental results and first-principles calculations, the variation in magnetic behavior from GO to M-rGO and to H-rGO is interpreted, and the origin of ferromagnetism is identified as the C 2p(σ*)-derived states that involve defects/vacancies rather than the C 2p(π*) states that are bound with oxygen-containing and hydroxyl groups on GO sheets.

  5. Visualizing chemical states and defects induced magnetism of graphene oxide by spatially-resolved-X-ray microscopy and spectroscopy

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Y. F.; Singh, Shashi B.; Limaye, Mukta V.; Shao, Y. C.; Hsieh, S. H.; Chen, L. Y.; Hsueh, H. C.; Wang, H. T.; Chiou, J. W.; Yeh, Y. C.; Chen, C. W.; Chen, C. H.; Ray, Sekhar C.; Wang, J.; Pong, W. F.; Takagi, Y.; Ohigashi, T.; Yokoyama, T.; Kosugi, N.

    2015-01-01

    This investigation studies the various magnetic behaviors of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxides (rGOs) and elucidates the relationship between the chemical states that involve defects therein and their magnetic behaviors in GO sheets. Magnetic hysteresis loop reveals that the GO is ferromagnetic whereas photo-thermal moderately reduced graphene oxide (M-rGO) and heavily reduced graphene oxide (H-rGO) gradually become paramagnetic behavior at room temperature. Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy and corresponding X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy were utilized to investigate thoroughly the variation of the C 2p(π*) states that are bound with oxygen-containing and hydroxyl groups, as well as the C 2p(σ*)-derived states in flat and wrinkle regions to clarify the relationship between the spatially-resolved chemical states and the magnetism of GO, M-rGO and H-rGO. The results of X-ray magnetic circular dichroism further support the finding that C 2p(σ*)-derived states are the main origin of the magnetism of GO. Based on experimental results and first-principles calculations, the variation in magnetic behavior from GO to M-rGO and to H-rGO is interpreted, and the origin of ferromagnetism is identified as the C 2p(σ*)-derived states that involve defects/vacancies rather than the C 2p(π*) states that are bound with oxygen-containing and hydroxyl groups on GO sheets. PMID:26481557

  6. Tribology study of reduced graphene oxide sheets on silicon substrate synthesized via covalent assembly.

    PubMed

    Ou, Junfei; Wang, Jinqing; Liu, Sheng; Mu, Bo; Ren, Junfang; Wang, Honggang; Yang, Shengrong

    2010-10-19

    Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets were covalently assembled onto silicon wafers via a multistep route based on the chemical adsorption and thermal reduction of graphene oxide (GO). The formation and microstructure of RGO were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and water contact angle (WCA) measurements. Characterization by atomic force microscopy (AFM) was performed to evaluate the morphology and microtribological behaviors of the samples. Macrotribological performance was tested on a ball-on-plate tribometer. Results show that the assembled RGO possesses good friction reduction and antiwear ability, properties ascribed to its intrinsic structure, that is, the covalent bonding to the substrate and self-lubricating property of RGO.

  7. Bandgap engineering through nanocrystalline magnetic alloy grafting on reduced graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    De, D; Chakraborty, M; Majumdar, S; Giri, S

    2014-09-28

    High conductivity and the absence of ferromagnetism in pristine graphene fail to satisfy primary criteria for possible technological application in spintronics. Opening of the bandgap in graphene is primarily desirable for such applications. We report a simplified and novel approach of controlled grafting of a magnetic alloy on reduced graphene oxide. This eventually leads to ferromagnetism of the stable hybrid material at room temperature, with a large moment (∼1.2 μB) and a remarkable decrease in conductivity (∼10 times) compared to highly ordered pyrolytic graphite. Our model band-structure calculation indicates that the combined effect of controlled vacancies and impurities attributed to the nanocrystalline alloy grafting leads to a promising step toward band gap engineering.

  8. Effect of reduced graphene oxide-carbon nanotubes hybrid nanofillers in mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sa, Kadambinee; Mahakul, Prakash C.; Subramanyam, B. V. R. S.; Raiguru, Jagatpati; Das, Sonali; Alam, Injamul; Mahanandia, Pitamber

    2018-03-01

    Graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have tremendous interest as reinforcing fillers due to their excellent physical properties. However, their reinforcing effect in polymer matrix is limited due to agglomeration of graphene and CNTs within the polymer matrix. Mechanical properties by the admixture of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and CNTs in Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) prepared by solution mixing method has been investigated. The prepared samples are characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The hybrid composite shows improvement in the mechanical properties compared to rGO/PMMA and MWCNTs/PMMA composites due to better interaction between rGO-MWCNTs and polymer matrix.

  9. In Situ Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide and Gold Nanocomposites for Nanoelectronics and Biosensing.

    PubMed

    Dong, Xiaochen; Huang, Wei; Chen, Peng

    2011-12-01

    In this study, an in situ chemical synthesis approach has been developed to prepare graphene-Au nanocomposites from chemically reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in aqueous media. UV-Vis absorption, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy were used to demonstrate the successful attachment of Au nanoparticles to graphene sheets. Configured as field-effect transistors (FETs), the as-synthesized single-layered rGO-Au nanocomposites exhibit higher hole mobility and conductance when compared to the rGO sheets, promising its applications in nanoelectronics. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the rGO-Au FETs are able to label-freely detect DNA hybridization with high sensitivity, indicating its potentials in nanoelectronic biosensing.

  10. Synergistic effect of graphene oxide on the methanol oxidation for fuel cell application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Siwal, Samarjeet; Ghosh, Sarit; Nandi, Debkumar; Devi, Nishu; Perla, Venkata K.; Barik, Rasmita; Mallick, Kaushik

    2017-09-01

    Aromatic polypyrene was synthesized by the oxidative polymerization of pyrene with potassium tetrachloropalladate (II), as oxidant. During the polymerization process the palladium salt was reduced to metallic palladium and forms the metal-polymer composite material. Polypyrene stabilized palladium nanoparticles showed electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of methanol. The performance of the electrocatalytic activity was substantially improved with the incorporation of graphene oxide to the palladium-polypyrene composite and the synergistic performance was attributed to the electronic and structural properties of the system.

  11. Hierarchical hybrid of Ni3N/N-doped reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite as a noble metal free catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Qi; Li, Yingjun; Li, Yetong; Huang, Keke; Wang, Qin; Zhang, Jun

    2017-04-01

    Novel nickel nitride (Ni3N) nanoparticles supported on nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (N-RGOs) are synthesized via a facile strategy including hydrothermal and subsequent calcination methods, in which the reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (RGOs) are simultaneously doped with nitrogen species. By varying the content of the RGOs, a series of Ni3N/N-RGO nanocomposites are obtained. The Ni3N/N-RGO-30% hybrid nanocomposite exhibits superior catalytic activity towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) under alkaline condition (0.1 M KOH). Furthermore, this hybrid catalyst also demonstrates high tolerance to methanol poisoning. The RGO containing rich N confers the nanocomposite with large specific surface area and high electronic conduction ability, which can enhance the catalytic efficiency of Ni3N nanoparticles. The enhanced catalytic activity can be attributed to the synergistic effect between Ni3N and nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide. In addition, the sufficient contact between Ni3N nanoparticles and the N-RGO nanosheets simultaneously promotes good nanoparticle dispersion and provides a consecutive activity sites to accelerate electron transport continuously, which further enhance the ORR performance. The Ni3N/N-RGO may be further an ideal candidate as efficient and inexpensive noble metal-free ORR electrocatalyst in fuel cells.

  12. One-step hydrothermal synthesis of three-dimensional porous Ni-Co sulfide/reduced graphene oxide composite with optimal incorporation of carbon nanotubes for high performance supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Chiu, Cheng-Ting; Chen, Dong-Hwang

    2018-04-27

    Three-dimensional (3D) porous Ni-Co sulfide/reduced graphene oxide composite with the appropriate incorporation of carbon nanotubes (NCS/rGO/CNT) was fabricated as a promising material for supercapacitor electrodes. It combined the high pseudo-capacitance of Ni-Co sulfide as well as the large specific surface area and electrical double layer capacitance of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were incorporated to act as the spacer for hindering the restacking of rGO and to construct a conductive network for enhancing the electron transport. The 3D porous NCS/rGO/CNT composite was fabricated by a facile one-step hydrothermal process in which Ni-Co sulfide nanosheets were synthesized and graphene oxide was reduced simultaneously. It was shown that the capacitance and cyclic performance indeed could be effectively improved via the appropriate addition of CNTs. In addition, a flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor based on the NCS/rGO/CNT electrode was fabricated and exhibited the same capacitive electrochemical performance under bending. Also, it could successfully turn on a light-emitting diode light, revealing its feasibility in practical application. All results demonstrated that the developed NCS/rGO/CNT composite has potential application in supercapacitors.

  13. Effective extraction and simultaneous determination of Sudan dyes from tomato sauce and chili-containing foods using magnetite/reduced graphene oxide nanoparticles coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ming-Yue; Wang, Man-Man; Hao, Yu-Lan; Shi, Xin-Ran; Wang, Xue-Sheng

    2016-05-01

    A simple, effective, and robust magnetic solid-phase extraction method was developed using magnetite/reduced graphene oxide nanoparticles as the adsorbent for the simultaneous determination of Sudan dyes (I, II, III, and IV) in foodstuffs. The magnetite/reduced graphene oxide nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry. The extraction parameters including extraction time, elution solution, and elution time and volume were investigated in detail. Such magnetite/reduced graphene oxide nanoparticles based magnetic solid-phase extraction in combination with high-performance liquid chromatography and variable wavelength detection gave the detection limits of 3-6 μg/kg for Sudan I-IV in chili sauce, tomato sauce, chili powder, and chili flake samples. The recoveries were 79.6-108% at three spiked levels with the intra- and inter-day relative standard deviations of 1.2-8.6 and 4.5-9.6%, respectively. The feasibility was further performed by a comparison with commercial alumina-N. This method is suitable for the routine analysis of Sudan dyes due to its sensitivity, simplicity, and low cost. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  14. One-step hydrothermal synthesis of three-dimensional porous Ni-Co sulfide/reduced graphene oxide composite with optimal incorporation of carbon nanotubes for high performance supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chiu, Cheng-Ting; Chen, Dong-Hwang

    2018-04-01

    Three-dimensional (3D) porous Ni-Co sulfide/reduced graphene oxide composite with the appropriate incorporation of carbon nanotubes (NCS/rGO/CNT) was fabricated as a promising material for supercapacitor electrodes. It combined the high pseudo-capacitance of Ni-Co sulfide as well as the large specific surface area and electrical double layer capacitance of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were incorporated to act as the spacer for hindering the restacking of rGO and to construct a conductive network for enhancing the electron transport. The 3D porous NCS/rGO/CNT composite was fabricated by a facile one-step hydrothermal process in which Ni-Co sulfide nanosheets were synthesized and graphene oxide was reduced simultaneously. It was shown that the capacitance and cyclic performance indeed could be effectively improved via the appropriate addition of CNTs. In addition, a flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor based on the NCS/rGO/CNT electrode was fabricated and exhibited the same capacitive electrochemical performance under bending. Also, it could successfully turn on a light-emitting diode light, revealing its feasibility in practical application. All results demonstrated that the developed NCS/rGO/CNT composite has potential application in supercapacitors.

  15. One-pot synthesis of reduced graphene oxide@boron nitride nanosheet hybrids with enhanced oxidation-resistant properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Guoxun; Bi, Jianqiang; Wang, Weili; Zhang, Jingde

    2017-12-01

    Reduced graphene oxide@boron nitride nanosheet (RGO@BNNS) hybrids were prepared for the first time using template-assisted autoclave pyrolysis technique at the temperature as low as 600 °C. The developed method can be scaled into gram-scale synthesis of the material. The BNNSs combine with RGO through van der Waals interplanar interaction without damaging the structures of RGO. Such ultrathin BNNSs on the surface of RGO can serve as high-performance oxidation-resistant coatings in oxidizing atmospheres at high temperatures. The RGO@BNNS hybrids can sustain up to 800 °C over a relatively long period of time.

  16. Low-Damage Sputter Deposition on Graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Ching-Tzu; Casu, Emanuele; Gajek, Marcin; Raoux, Simone

    2013-03-01

    Despite its versatility and prevalence in the microelectronics industry, sputter deposition has seen very limited applications for graphene-based electronics. We have systematically investigated the sputtering induced graphene defects and identified the reflected high-energy neutrals of the sputtering gas as the primary cause of damage. In this talk, we introduce a novel sputtering technique that is shown to dramatically reduce bombardment of the fast neutrals and improve the structural integrity of the underlying graphene layer. We also demonstrate that sputter deposition and in-situ oxidation of 1 nm Al film at elevated temperatures yields homogeneous, fully covered oxide films with r.m.s. roughness much less than 1 monolayer, which shows the potential of using such technique for gate oxides, tunnel barriers, and multilayer fabrication in a wide range of graphene devices.

  17. Enhancing Hematite Photoanode Activity for Water Oxidation by Incorporation of Reduced Graphene Oxide.

    PubMed

    do Amaral Carminati, Saulo; Souza, Flavio L; Nogueira, Ana F

    2016-01-04

    Two effective methods to prepare reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/hematite nanostructured photoanodes and their photoelectrochemical characterization towards water splitting reactions are presented. First, graphene oxide (GO) is reduced to rGO using hydrazine in a basic solution containing tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH), and then deposited over the nanostructured hematite photoanodes previously treated at 750 °C for 30 min. The second method follows the deposition of a paste containing a mixture of hematite nanoparticles and rGO sheets by the doctor-blade method, varying the rGO concentration. Since hematite suffers from low electron mobility, a low absorption coefficient, high recombination rates and slow reaction kinetics, the incorporation of rGO in the hematite can overcome such limitations due to graphene's exceptional properties. Using the first method, the rGO incorporation results in a photocurrent density increase from 0.56 to 0.82 mA cm(-2) at 1.23 VRHE. Our results indicate that the rGO incorporation in the hematite photoanodes shows a positive effect in the reduction of the electron-hole recombination rate. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  18. Graphene-based smart materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Xiaowen; Cheng, Huhu; Zhang, Miao; Zhao, Yang; Qu, Liangti; Shi, Gaoquan

    2017-09-01

    The high specific surface area and the excellent mechanical, electrical, optical and thermal properties of graphene make it an attractive component for high-performance stimuli-responsive or 'smart' materials. Complementary to these inherent properties, functionalization or hybridization can substantially improve the performance of these materials. Typical graphene-based smart materials include mechanically exfoliated perfect graphene, chemical vapour deposited high-quality graphene, chemically modified graphene (for example, graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide) and their macroscopic assemblies or composites. These materials are sensitive to a range of stimuli, including gas molecules or biomolecules, pH value, mechanical strain, electrical field, and thermal or optical excitation. In this Review, we outline different graphene-based smart materials and their potential applications in actuators, chemical or strain sensors, self-healing materials, photothermal therapy and controlled drug delivery. We also introduce the working mechanisms of graphene-based smart materials and discuss the challenges facing the realization of their practical applications.

  19. Energy efficient reduced graphene oxide additives: Mechanism of effective lubrication and antiwear properties

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Bhavana; Kumar, N.; Panda, Kalpataru; Dash, S.; Tyagi, A. K.

    2016-01-01

    Optimized concentration of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in the lube is one of the important factors for effective lubrication of solid body contacts. At sufficiently lower concentration, the lubrication is ineffective and friction/wear is dominated by base oil. In contrast, at sufficiently higher concentration, the rGO sheets aggregates in the oil and weak interlayer sliding characteristic of graphene sheets is no more active for providing lubrication. However, at optimized concentration, friction coefficient and wear is remarkably reduced to 70% and 50%, respectively, as compared to neat oil. Traditionally, such lubrication is described by graphene/graphite particle deposited in contact surfaces that provides lower shear strength of boundary tribofilm. In the present investigation, graphene/graphite tribofilm was absent and existing traditional lubrication mechanism for the reduction of friction and wear is ruled out. It is demonstrated that effective lubrication is possible, if rGO is chemically linked with PEG molecules through hydrogen bonding and PEG intercalated graphene sheets provide sufficiently lower shear strength of freely suspended composite tribofilm under the contact pressure. The work revealed that physical deposition and adsorption of the graphene sheets in the metallic contacts is not necessary for the lubrication. PMID:26725334

  20. Wet-spun, porous, orientational graphene hydrogel films for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kou, Liang; Liu, Zheng; Huang, Tieqi; Zheng, Bingna; Tian, Zhanyuan; Deng, Zengshe; Gao, Chao

    2015-02-01

    Supercapacitors with porous electrodes of graphene macroscopic assembly are supposed to have high energy storage capacity. However, a great number of ``close pores'' in porous graphene electrodes are invalid because electrolyte ions cannot infiltrate. A quick method to prepare porous graphene electrodes with reduced ``close pores'' is essential for higher energy storage. Here we propose a wet-spinning assembly approach based on the liquid crystal behavior of graphene oxide to continuously spin orientational graphene hydrogel films with ``open pores'', which are used directly as binder-free supercapacitor electrodes. The resulting supercapacitor electrodes show better electrochemical performance than those with disordered graphene sheets. Furthermore, three reduction methods including hydrothermal treatment, hydrazine and hydroiodic acid reduction are used to evaluate the specific capacitances of the graphene hydrogel film. Hydrazine-reduced graphene hydrogel film shows the highest capacitance of 203 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 and maintains 67.1% specific capacitance (140 F g-1) at 50 A g-1. The combination of scalable wet-spinning technology and orientational structure makes graphene hydrogel films an ideal electrode material for supercapacitors.Supercapacitors with porous electrodes of graphene macroscopic assembly are supposed to have high energy storage capacity. However, a great number of ``close pores'' in porous graphene electrodes are invalid because electrolyte ions cannot infiltrate. A quick method to prepare porous graphene electrodes with reduced ``close pores'' is essential for higher energy storage. Here we propose a wet-spinning assembly approach based on the liquid crystal behavior of graphene oxide to continuously spin orientational graphene hydrogel films with ``open pores'', which are used directly as binder-free supercapacitor electrodes. The resulting supercapacitor electrodes show better electrochemical performance than those with disordered graphene sheets. Furthermore, three reduction methods including hydrothermal treatment, hydrazine and hydroiodic acid reduction are used to evaluate the specific capacitances of the graphene hydrogel film. Hydrazine-reduced graphene hydrogel film shows the highest capacitance of 203 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 and maintains 67.1% specific capacitance (140 F g-1) at 50 A g-1. The combination of scalable wet-spinning technology and orientational structure makes graphene hydrogel films an ideal electrode material for supercapacitors. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: The schematic diagram for fabricating graphene oxide hydrogel films, stress-strain curves and TGA curves of three GHFs, a digital photo of the test device for the two-electrode system, and comparison of the electrochemical performance of our GHF-HZ supercapacitors. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr07038k

  1. Promising applications of graphene and graphene-based nanostructures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Bich Ha; Hieu Nguyen, Van

    2016-06-01

    The present article is a review of research works on promising applications of graphene and graphene-based nanostructures. It contains five main scientific subjects. The first one is the research on graphene-based transparent and flexible conductive films for displays and electrodes: efficient method ensuring uniform and controllable deposition of reduced graphene oxide thin films over large areas, large-scale pattern growth of graphene films for stretchble transparent electrodes, utilization of graphene-based transparent conducting films and graphene oxide-based ones in many photonic and optoelectronic devices and equipments such as the window electrodes of inorganic, organic and dye-sensitized solar cells, organic light-emitting diodes, light-emitting electrochemical cells, touch screens, flexible smart windows, graphene-based saturated absorbers in laser cavities for ultrafast generations, graphene-based flexible, transparent heaters in automobile defogging/deicing systems, heatable smart windows, graphene electrodes for high-performance organic field-effect transistors, flexible and transparent acoustic actuators and nanogenerators etc. The second scientific subject is the research on conductive inks for printed electronics to revolutionize the electronic industry by producing cost-effective electronic circuits and sensors in very large quantities: preparing high mobility printable semiconductors, low sintering temperature conducting inks, graphene-based ink by liquid phase exfoliation of graphite in organic solutions, and developing inkjet printing technique for mass production of high-quality graphene patterns with high resolution and for fabricating a variety of good-performance electronic devices, including transparent conductors, embedded resistors, thin-film transistors and micro supercapacitors. The third scientific subject is the research on graphene-based separation membranes: molecular dynamics simulation study on the mechanisms of the transport of molecules, vapors and gases through nanopores in graphene membranes, experimental works investigating selective transport of different molecules through nanopores in single-layer graphene and graphene-based membranes toward the water desalination, chemical mixture separation and gas control. Various applications of graphene in bio-medicine are the contents of the fourth scientific subject of the review. They include the DNA translocations through nanopores in graphene membranes toward the fabrication of devices for genomic screening, in particular DNA sequencing; subnanometre trans-electrode membranes with potential applications to the fabrication of very high resolution, high throughput nanopore-based single-molecule detectors; antibacterial activity of graphene, graphite oxide, graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide; nanopore sensors for nucleic acid analysis; utilization of graphene multilayers as the gates for sequential release of proteins from surface; utilization of graphene-based electroresponsive scaffolds as implants for on-demand drug delivery etc. The fifth scientific subject of the review is the research on the utilization of graphene in energy storage devices: ternary self-assembly of ordered metal oxide-graphene nanocomposites for electrochemical energy storage; self-assembled graphene/carbon nanotube hybrid films for supercapacitors; carbon-based supercapacitors fabricated by activation of graphene; functionalized graphene sheet-sulfure nanocomposite for using as cathode material in rechargeable lithium batteries; tunable three-dimensional pillared carbon nanotube-graphene networks for high-performance capacitance; fabrications of electrochemical micro-capacitors using thin films of carbon nanotubes and chemically reduced graphenes; laser scribing of high-performance and flexible graphene-based electrochemical capacitors; emergence of next-generation safe batteries featuring graphene-supported Li metal anode with exceptionally high energy or power densities; fabrication of anodes for lithium ion batteries from crumpled graphene-encapsulated Si nanoparticles; liquid-mediated dense integration of graphene materials for compact capacitive energy storage; scalable fabrication of high-power graphene micro-supercapacitors for flexible and on-chip energy storage; superior micro-supercapacitors based on graphene quantum dots; all-graphene core-sheat microfibres for all-solid-state, stretchable fibriform supercapacitors and wearable electronic textiles; micro-supercapacitors with high electrochemical performance based on three-dimensional graphene-carbon nanotube carpets; macroscopic nitrogen-doped graphene hydrogels for ultrafast capacitors; manufacture of scalable ultra-thin and high power density graphene electrochemical capacitor electrodes by aqueous exfoliation and spray deposition; scalable synthesis of hierarchically structured carbon nanotube-graphene fibers for capacitive energy storage; phosphorene-graphene hybrid material as a high-capacity anode material for sodium-ion batteries. Beside above-presented promising applications of graphene and graphene-based nanostructures, other less widespread, but perhaps not less important, applications of graphene and graphene-based nanomaterials, are also briefly discussed.

  2. One Single Graphene Oxide Film for Responsive Actuation.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Huhu; Zhao, Fei; Xue, Jiangli; Shi, Gaoquan; Jiang, Lan; Qu, Liangti

    2016-09-22

    Graphene, because of its superior electrical/thermal conductivity, high surface area, excellent mechanical flexibility, and stability, is currently receiving significant attention and benefit to fabricate actuator devices. Here, a sole graphene oxide (GO) film responsive actuator with an integrated self-detecting sensor has been developed. The film exhibits an asymmetric surface structure on its two sides, creating a promising actuation ability triggered by multistimuli, such as moisture, thermals, and infrared light. Meanwhile, the built-in laser-writing reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sensor in the film can detect its own deformation in real time. Smart perceptual fingers in addition to rectangular-shaped and even four-legged walking robots have been developed based on the responsive GO film.

  3. Synthesis of reduced carbon nitride at the reduction by hydroquinone of water-soluble carbon nitride oxide (g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4})O

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kharlamov, Alexey; Bondarenko, Marina, E-mail: mebondarenko@ukr.net; Kharlamova, Ganna

    For the first time at the reduction by hydroquinone of water-soluble carbon nitride oxide (g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4})O reduced carbon nitride (or reduced multi-layer azagraphene) is obtained. It is differed from usually synthesized carbon nitride by a significantly large (on 0.09 nm) interplanar distance is. At the same time, the chemical bonds between atoms in a heteroatomic plane of reduced carbon nitride correspond to the bonds in a synthesized g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}. The samples of water-soluble carbon nitride oxide were synthesized under the special reactionary conditions of a pyrolysis of melamine and urea. We believe that reduced carbon nitride consists ofmore » weakly connected carbon-nitrogen monosheets (azagraphene sheets) as well as reduced (from graphene oxide) graphene contains weakly connected graphene sheets. - Graphical abstract: XRD pattern and schematic atomic model of one layer of reduced carbon nitride, carbon nitride oxide and synthesized carbon nitride. For the first time at the reduction by hydroquinone of the water-soluble carbon nitride oxide (g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4})O is obtained the reduced carbon nitride (or reduced multi-layer azagraphene). Display Omitted - Highlights: • First the reduced carbon nitride (RCN) at the reduction of the carbon nitride oxide was obtained. • Water-soluble carbon nitride oxide was reduced by hydroquinone. • The chemical bonds in a heteroatomic plane of RCN correspond to the bonds in a synthesized g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}. • Reduced carbon nitride consists of poorly connected heteroatomic azagraphene layers.« less

  4. Economical and eco-friendly recycling of used dry batteries for synthesis of graphene oxide by sheer exfoliation in presence of SDS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kochrekar, Sachin; Agharkar, Mahesh; Salgaonkar, Manjunath; Gharge, Mrunal; Hidouri, Slah; Azeez, Musibau A.

    2015-06-01

    Graphene is a two-dimensional form of graphite that has attracted great curiosity for its novel physical properties. A key challenge that has emerged is how to create large amounts of graphene at low cost. The purpose of this Paper is to explore a new method to exfoliate graphite extracted from used dry battery in a small scale blender; in presence of SDS surfactant to synthesize graphene oxide, which can be then reduced to graphene. Quantity of SDS required is extremely less (1/10th) of graphite, and it replaces several steps and chemicals such as KMnO4, H2O2, H2SO4 and NaNO3. In this paper, we present the new process and preliminary characterization of synthesized graphene oxide by Raman and UV-Vis absorbance spectroscopy and ATR-IR spectroscopy.

  5. Diastase induced green synthesis of bilayered reduced graphene oxide and its decoration with gold nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Maddinedi, Sireesh Babu; Mandal, Badal Kumar; Patil, Sagar Hindurao; Andhalkar, Vaibhav Vilas; Ranjan, Shivendu; Dasgupta, Nandita

    2017-01-01

    In this paper, we report an enzyme dependent, green one-pot deoxygenation cum decoration method to synthesize diastase-conjugated reduced graphene oxide (DRG) nanosheets, DRG/gold nanoparticles (DRG/Au) composite. The DRG synthesis was completed in 7h under heating at 90°C on water bath. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM) study has revealed the formation of bilayered reduced graphene oxide sheets. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of DRG/Au composite have shown the uniform decoration of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) onto the DRG nanosheet surface. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman results additionally have shown the functionalization of enzyme molecules onto the DRG nanosheet surface after reduction making it as an effective platform towards the efficient binding of gold nanoparticles. In vitro cytotoxicity studies by MTT assay on A549 and HCT116 cell lines exhibited that the cytotoxicity of the prepared graphene oxide (GO), DRG and DRG/Au is dose dependant. These results have shown that this synthetic method is effective for the production of large scale graphene in a low cost, simple and green method. Since this process avoids the use of hazardous and toxic substances, the produced DRG/Au composites are likely to offer various potential applications in biology and medicine. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Size-tunable phosphorescence in colloidal metastable gamma-Ga2O3 nanocrystals.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ting; Farvid, Shokouh S; Abulikemu, Mutalifu; Radovanovic, Pavle V

    2010-07-14

    We report a colloidal synthesis of gallium oxide (Ga(2)O(3)) nanocrystals having metastable cubic crystal structure (gamma phase) and uniform size distribution. Using the synthesized nanocrystal size series we demonstrate for the first time a size-tunable photoluminescence in Ga(2)O(3) from ultraviolet to blue, with the emission shifting to lower energies with increasing nanocrystal size. The observed photoluminescence is dominated by defect-based donor-acceptor pair recombination and has a lifetime of several milliseconds. Importantly, the decay of this phosphorescence is also size dependent. The phosphorescence energy and the decay rate increase with decreasing nanocrystal size, owing to a reduced donor-acceptor separation. These results allow for a rational and predictable tuning of the optical properties of this technologically important material and demonstrate the possibility of manipulating the localized defect interactions via nanocrystal size. Furthermore, the same defect states, particularly donors, are also implicated in electrical conductivity rendering monodispersed Ga(2)O(3) nanocrystals a promising material for multifunctional optoelectronic structures and devices.

  7. Preparation of reduced graphene oxide/gelatin composite films with reinforced mechanical strength

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wang, Wenchao; Wang, Zhipeng; School of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin

    2012-09-15

    Highlights: ► We used and compared different proportion of gelatin and chitosan as reducing agents. ► The mechanical properties of the films are investigated, especially the wet films. ► The cell toxicity of the composite films as biomaterial is carried out. ► The water absorption capabilities of the composite films also studied. -- Abstract: Graphene oxide (GO) was reduced by chitosan/gelatin solution and added to gelatin (Gel) to fabricate reduced graphene oxide/gelatin (RGO/Gel) films by a solvent-casting method using genipin as cross-linking agent. The structure and properties of the films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffractionmore » (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and UV–vis spectroscopy. The addition of RGO increased the tensile strength of the RGO/Gel films in both dry and wet states, but decreased their elongation at break. The incorperation of RGO also decreased the swelling ability of the films in water. Cell cultures were carried out in order to test the cytotoxicity of the films. The cells grew and reproduced well on the RGO/Gel films, indicating that the addition of RGO has no negative effect on the compatibility of the gelatin. Therefore, the reduced graphene oxide/gelatin composite is a promising biomaterial with excellent mechanical properties and good cell compatibility.« less

  8. Straightforward Generation of Pillared, Microporous Graphene Frameworks for Use in Supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Yuan, Kai; Xu, Yazhou; Uihlein, Johannes; Brunklaus, Gunther; Shi, Lei; Heiderhoff, Ralf; Que, Mingming; Forster, Michael; Chassé, Thomas; Pichler, Thomas; Riedl, Thomas; Chen, Yiwang; Scherf, Ullrich

    2015-11-01

    Microporous, pillared graphene-based frameworks are generated in a simple functionalization/coupling procedure starting from reduced graphene oxide. They are used for the fabrication of high-performance supercapacitor devices. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  9. Enhance wastewater biological treatment through the bacteria induced graphene oxide hydrogel.

    PubMed

    Shen, Liang; Jin, Ziheng; Wang, Dian; Wang, Yuanpeng; Lu, Yinghua

    2018-01-01

    The interaction between bacteria and graphene-family materials like pristine graphene, graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is such an elusive issue that its implication in environmental biotechnology is unclear. Herein, two kinds of self-assembled bio-rGO-hydrogels (BGHs) were prepared by cultivating specific Shewanella sp. strains with GO solution for the first time. The microscopic examination by SEM, TEM and CLSM indicated a porous 3D structure of BGHs, in which live bacteria firmly anchored and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) abundantly distributed. Spectra of XRD, FTIR, XPS and Raman further proved that GO was reduced to rGO by bacteria along with the gelation process, which suggests a potential green technique to produce graphene. Based on the characterization results, four mechanisms for the BGH formation were proposed, i.e., stacking, bridging, rolling and cross-linking of rGO sheets, through the synergistic effect of activities and EPS from special bacteria. More importantly, the BGHs obtained in this study were found able to achieve unique cleanup performance that the counterpart free bacteria could not fulfill, as exemplified in Congo red decolorization and Cr(VI) bioreduction. These findings therefore enlighten a prospective application of graphene materials for the biological treatment of wastewaters in the future. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. High-concentration graphene dispersion stabilized by block copolymers in ethanol.

    PubMed

    Perumal, Suguna; Lee, Hyang Moo; Cheong, In Woo

    2017-07-01

    This article describes a comprehensive study for the preparation of graphene dispersions by liquid-phase exfoliation using amphiphilic diblock copolymers; poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(styrene) (PEO-b-PS), poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PEO-b-PVP), and poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(pyrenemethyl methacrylate) (PEO-b-PPy) with similar block lengths. Block copolymers were prepared from PEO using the Steglich coupling reaction followed by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Graphite platelets (G) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were used as graphene sources. The dispersion stability of graphene in ethanol was comparatively investigated by on-line turbidity, and the graphene concentration in the dispersions was determined gravimetrically. Our results revealed that the graphene dispersions with PEO-b-PVP were much more stable and included graphene with fewer defects than that with PEO-b-PS or PEO-b-PPy, as confirmed by turbidity and Raman analyses. Gravimetry confirmed that graphene concentrations up to 1.7 and 1.8mg/mL could be obtained from G and rGO dispersions, respectively, using PEO-b-PVP after one week. Distinctions in adhesion forces of PS, VP, PPy block units with graphene surface and the variation in solubility of the block copolymers in ethanol medium significantly affected the stability of the graphene dispersion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Biofabrication of a novel biomolecule-assisted reduced graphene oxide: an excellent biocompatible nanomaterial

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xi-Feng; Gurunathan, Sangiliyandi

    2016-01-01

    Graphene has been shown much interest, both in academics and industry due to its extraordinary physical, chemical, and biological proprieties. It shows great promises in biotechnological and biomedical applications as an antibacterial and anticancer agent, nanocarrier, sensor, etc. However, many studies demonstrated the toxicity of graphene in several cell lines, which is an obstacle to its use in biomedical applications. In this study, to improve the biocompatibility of graphene, we used nicotinamide (NAM) as a reducing and stabilizing agent to catalyze the reduction of graphene oxide (GO) to reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The resulted smaller-sized GO (NAM-rGO) showed excellent biocompatibility with mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, evidenced by various cellular assays. Furthermore, NAM-rGO had no effect on mitochondrial membrane permeability and caspase-3 activity compared to GO. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis allowed us to identify the molecular mechanisms responsible for NAM-rGO-induced biocompatibility. NAM-rGO significantly induced the expression of genes encoding tight junction proteins (TJPs) such as zona occludens-1 (Tjp1) and claudins (Cldn3) without any effect on the expression of cytoskeleton proteins. Furthermore, NAM-rGO enhances the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) gene, and it does this in a time-dependent manner. Overall, our study depicted the molecular mechanisms underlying NAM-rGO biocompatibility depending on upregulation of TJPs and ALP. This potential quality of graphene could be used in diverse applications including tissue regeneration and tissue engineering. PMID:27994461

  12. Surface Structure Dependent Electrocatalytic Activity of Co3O4 Anchored on Graphene Sheets toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction

    PubMed Central

    Xiao, Junwu; Kuang, Qin; Yang, Shihe; Xiao, Fei; Wang, Shuai; Guo, Lin

    2013-01-01

    Catalytic activity is primarily a surface phenomenon, however, little is known about Co3O4 nanocrystals in terms of the relationship between the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalytic activity and surface structure, especially when dispersed on a highly conducting support to improve the electrical conductivity and so to enhance the catalytic activity. Herein, we report a controllable synthesis of Co3O4 nanorods (NR), nanocubes (NC) and nano-octahedrons (OC) with the different exposed nanocrystalline surfaces ({110}, {100}, and {111}), uniformly anchored on graphene sheets, which has allowed us to investigate the effects of the surface structure on the ORR activity. Results show that the catalytically active sites for ORR should be the surface Co2+ ions, whereas the surface Co3+ ions catalyze CO oxidation, and the catalytic ability is closely related to the density of the catalytically active sites. These results underscore the importance of morphological control in the design of highly efficient ORR catalysts. PMID:23892418

  13. One - Step synthesis of nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide with NiCo nanoparticles for ethanol oxidation in alkaline media.

    PubMed

    Kakaei, Karim; Marzang, Kamaran

    2016-01-15

    Development of anode catalysts and catalyst supporting carbonaceous material containing non-precious metal have attracted tremendous attention in the field of direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs). Herein, we report the synthesis and electrochemical properties of nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (NRGO) supported Co, Ni and NiCo nanocomposites. The metal NRGO nanocomposites, in which metal nanoparticles are embedded in the highly porous nitrogen-doped graphene matrix, have been synthesized by simply and one-pot method at a mild temperature using GO, urea choline chloride and urea as reducing and doping agent. The fabricated NiCo/NRGO exhibit remarkable electrocatalytic activity (with Tafel slope of 159.1mVdec(-1)) and high stability for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). The superior performance of the alloy based NRGO is attributed to high surface area, well uniform distribution of high-density nitrogen, metal active sites and synergistic effect. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Synthesis of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide by needle platy natural vein graphite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rathnayake, R. M. N. M.; Wijayasinghe, H. W. M. A. C.; Pitawala, H. M. T. G. A.; Yoshimura, Masamichi; Huang, Hsin-Hui

    2017-01-01

    Among natural graphite varieties, needle platy vein graphite (NPG) has very high purity. Therefore, it is readily used to prepare graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). In this study, GO and rGO were prepared using chemical oxidation and reduction process, respectively. The synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. XRD studies confirmed the increase of the interlayer spacing of GO and rGO in between 3.35 to 8.66 A°. AFM studies showed the layer height of rGO to be 1.05 nm after the reduction process. TEM micrographs clearly illustrated that the prepared GO has more than 25 layers, while the rGO has only less than 15 layers. Furthermore, the effect of chemical oxidation and reduction processes on surface morphology of graphite were clearly observed in FESEM micrographs. The calculated RO/C of GO and rGO using XPS analysis are 5.37% and 1.77%, respectively. The present study revealed the successful and cost effective nature of the chemical oxidation, and the reduction processes for the production of GO and rGO out of natural vein graphite.

  15. Natural printed silk substrate circuit fabricated via surface modification using one step thermal transfer and reduction graphene oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cao, Jiliang; Huang, Zhan; Wang, Chaoxia

    2018-05-01

    Graphene conductive silk substrate is a preferred material because of its biocompatibility, flexibility and comfort. A flexible natural printed silk substrate circuit was fabricated by one step transfer of graphene oxide (GO) paste from transfer paper to the surface of silk fabric and reduction of the GO to reduced graphene oxide (RGO) using a simple hot press treatment. The GO paste was obtained through ultrasonic stirring exfoliation under low temperature, and presented excellent printing rheological properties at high concentration. The silk fabric was obtained a surface electric resistance as low as 12.15 KΩ cm-1, in the concentration of GO 50 g L-1 and hot press at 220 °C for 120 s. Though the whiteness and strength decreased with the increasing of hot press temperature and time slowly, the electric conductivity of RGO surface modification silk substrate improved obviously. The surface electric resistance of RGO/silk fabrics increased from 12.15 KΩ cm-1 to 18.05 KΩ cm-1, 28.54 KΩ cm-1 and 32.53 KΩ cm-1 after 10, 20 and 30 washing cycles, respectively. The results showed that the printed silk substrate circuit has excellent washability. This process requires no chemical reductant, and the reduction efficiency and reduction degree of GO is high. This time-effective and environmentally-friendly one step thermal transfer and reduction graphene oxide onto natural silk substrate method can be easily used to production of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) based flexible printed circuit.

  16. Synthesis and antioxidant activity of star-shape phenolic antioxidants catalyzed by acidic nanocatalyst based on reduced graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Golestanzadeh, Mohsen; Naeimi, Hossein; Zahraie, Zohreh

    2017-02-01

    Phenolic antioxidants play important role in prevention of oxidation in different industrials. The research objective in the current study was synthesis and evaluate of antioxidant activity of star-shape phenolic antioxidants. The synthetic compounds were prepared in the presence of sulfonated reduced graphene oxide. The antioxidant activity of synthesized compounds was investigated by spectrophotometrically method according to the DPPH assay. Overall, these compounds are potentially important antioxidant and also to limit activity of reactive oxygen species. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Impact of Reduced Graphene Oxide on MoS2 Grown by Sulfurization of Sputtered MoO3 and Mo Precursor Films (Postprint)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-05-26

    AFRL-RX-WP-JA-2017-0137 IMPACT OF REDUCED GRAPHENE OXIDE ON MOS2 GROWN BY SULFURIZATION OF SPUTTERED MOO3 AND MO PRECURSOR FILMS...OXIDE ON MOS2 GROWN BY SULFURIZATION OF SPUTTERED MOO3 AND Mo PRECURSOR FILMS (POSTPRINT) 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER FA8650-11-D-5401-0008 5b. GRANT...2016. © 2016 American Vacuum Society. The U.S. Government is joint author of the work and has the right to use, modify , reproduce, release, perform

  18. A composite structure based on reduced graphene oxide and metal oxide nanomaterials for chemical sensors.

    PubMed

    Galstyan, Vardan; Comini, Elisabetta; Kholmanov, Iskandar; Ponzoni, Andrea; Sberveglieri, Veronica; Poli, Nicola; Faglia, Guido; Sberveglieri, Giorgio

    2016-01-01

    A hybrid nanostructure based on reduced graphene oxide and ZnO has been obtained for the detection of volatile organic compounds. The sensing properties of the hybrid structure have been studied for different concentrations of ethanol and acetone. The response of the hybrid material is significantly higher compared to pristine ZnO nanostructures. The obtained results have shown that the nanohybrid is a promising structure for the monitoring of environmental pollutants and for the application of breath tests in assessment of exposure to volatile organic compounds.

  19. A feasible strategy to balance the crystallinity and specific surface area of metal oxide nanocrystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Q. P.; Xu, X. N.; Liu, Y. T.; Xu, M.; Deng, S. H.; Chen, Y.; Yuan, H.; Yu, F.; Huang, Y.; Zhao, K.; Xu, S.; Xiong, G.

    2017-04-01

    Practical, efficient synthesis of metal oxide nanocrystals with good crystallinity and high specific surface area by a modified polymer-network gel method is demonstrated, taking ZnO nanocrystals as an example. A novel stepwise heat treatment yields significant improvement in crystal quality. Such nanophase materials can effectively degrade common organic dyes under solar radiation and can perform very well in photo-assisted detection of NO2 gas. Other typical metal oxide nanocrystals with good crystallinity and high specific surface area were also synthesized successfully under similar conditions. This work provides a general strategy for the synthesis of metal oxide nanocrystals, balancing the crystallinity and specific surface area.

  20. Morphology, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Containing Reduced Graphene Oxide and Graphene Nanoplatelets.

    PubMed

    Strankowski, Michał; Korzeniewski, Piotr; Strankowska, Justyna; A S, Anu; Thomas, Sabu

    2018-01-06

    Polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites were synthesized using commercial thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU, Apilon 52DE55), and two types of graphene derivatives: graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO). Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy, TEM, and SEM microscopy and XRD techniques were used to chemically and structurally characterize GNP and RGO nanofillers. The properties of the new TPU nanocomposite materials were studied using thermal analysis techniques (Dynamical Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG)) to describe the influence of graphene nanofillers on polyurethane matrix. Our investigation describes the comparison of two types of graphene derivatives, commercial one (GNP) and synthesized (RGO) on thermoplastic polyurethanes. These nanofillers provides opportunities to achieve compatibility with the TPU matrix. The property enhancements are attributed commonly to high aspect ratio of graphene nanoplatelets and filler-polymer interactions at the interface. The obtained nanocomposites exhibit higher thermal and mechanical properties due to the good dispersion of both nanofillers into TPU matrix. It was found that the addition of 2 wt % of the nanofiller could lead to a significant reinforcement effect on the TPU matrix. Also, with high content of nanofiller (GNP and RGO), the Payne effect was observed.

  1. Thermoelectric Power Generation from Lanthanum Strontium Titanium Oxide at Room Temperature through the Addition of Graphene.

    PubMed

    Lin, Yue; Norman, Colin; Srivastava, Deepanshu; Azough, Feridoon; Wang, Li; Robbins, Mark; Simpson, Kevin; Freer, Robert; Kinloch, Ian A

    2015-07-29

    The applications of strontium titanium oxide based thermoelectric materials are currently limited by their high operating temperatures of >700 °C. Herein, we show that the thermal operating window of lanthanum strontium titanium oxide (LSTO) can be reduced to room temperature by the addition of a small amount of graphene. This increase in operating performance will enable future applications such as generators in vehicles and other sectors. The LSTO composites incorporated one percent or less of graphene and were sintered under an argon/hydrogen atmosphere. The resultant materials were reduced and possessed a multiphase structure with nanosized grains. The thermal conductivity of the nanocomposites decreased upon the addition of graphene, whereas the electrical conductivity and power factor both increased significantly. These factors, together with a moderate Seebeck coefficient, meant that a high power factor of ∼2500 μWm(-1)K(-2) was reached at room temperature at a loading of 0.6 wt % graphene. The highest thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) was achieved when 0.6 wt % graphene was added (ZT = 0.42 at room temperature and 0.36 at 750 °C), with >280% enhancement compared to that of pure LSTO. A preliminary 7-couple device was produced using bismuth strontium cobalt oxide/graphene-LSTO pucks. This device had a Seebeck coefficient of ∼1500 μV/K and an open voltage of 600 mV at a mean temperature of 219 °C.

  2. Graphene interfaced perovskite solar cells: Role of graphene flake size

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sakorikar, Tushar; Kavitha, M. K.; Tong, Shi Wun; Vayalamkuzhi, Pramitha; Loh, Kian Ping; Jaiswal, Manu

    2018-04-01

    Graphene interfaced inverted planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells are fabricated by facile solution method and studied its potential as hole conducting layer. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with small and large flake size and Polyethylenedioxythiophene:polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) are utilized as hole conducting layers in different devices. For the solar cell employing PEDOT:PSS as hole conducting layer, 3.8 % photoconversion efficiency is achieved. In case of solar cells fabricated with rGO as hole conducting layer, the efficiency of the device is strongly dependent on flake size. With all other fabrication conditions kept constant, the efficiency of graphene-interfaced solar cell improves by a factor of 6, by changing the flake size of graphene oxide. We attribute this effect to uniform coverage of graphene layer and improved electrical percolation network.

  3. Iron-Based Nanomaterials/Graphene Composites for Advanced Electrochemical Sensors

    PubMed Central

    Movlaee, Kaveh; Ganjali, Mohmmad Reza; Norouzi, Parviz

    2017-01-01

    Iron oxide nanostructures (IONs) in combination with graphene or its derivatives—e.g., graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide—hold great promise toward engineering of efficient nanocomposites for enhancing the performance of advanced devices in many applicative fields. Due to the peculiar electrical and electrocatalytic properties displayed by composite structures in nanoscale dimensions, increasing efforts have been directed in recent years toward tailoring the properties of IONs-graphene based nanocomposites for developing more efficient electrochemical sensors. In the present feature paper, we first reviewed the various routes for synthesizing IONs-graphene nanostructures, highlighting advantages, disadvantages and the key synthesis parameters for each method. Then, a comprehensive discussion is presented in the case of application of IONs-graphene based composites in electrochemical sensors for the determination of various kinds of (bio)chemical substances. PMID:29168771

  4. Controlled surface oxidation of multi-layered graphene anode to increase hole injection efficiency in organic electronic devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Han, Tae-Hee; Kwon, Sung-Joo; Seo, Hong-Kyu; Lee, Tae-Woo

    2016-03-01

    Ultraviolet ozone (UVO) surface treatment of graphene changes its sp2-hybridized carbons to sp3-bonded carbons, and introduces oxygen-containing components. Oxidized graphene has a finite energy band gap, so UVO modification of the surface of a four-layered graphene anode increases its surface ionization potential up to ∼5.2 eV and improves the hole injection efficiency (η) in organic electronic devices by reducing the energy barrier between the graphene anode and overlying organic layers. By controlling the conditions of the UVO treatment, the electrical properties of the graphene can be tuned to improve η. This controlled surface modification of the graphene will provide a way to achieve efficient and stable flexible displays and solid-state lighting.

  5. Ultrasonic chemical synthesis of CdS-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites with an enhanced visible light photoactivity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Yi-Chen; Tsai, Du-Cheng; Chang, Zue-Chin; Shieu, Fuh-Sheng

    2018-05-01

    In this study, we report a facile ultrasonic method to prepare a series of CdS and reduced graphene oxide (CdS/rGO) composites with different weight ratios of graphene at temperature as low as 70 °C for 20 min by employing ammonia as a complexing agent of Cd2+ ions and reducing agent of graphene oxide (GO). Pure CdS particles had a poor crystallinity and aggregated to large particles size. As GO was incorporated into CdS, a uniform dispersion of CdS particles with high crystallinity on rGO sheets was clearly observed. The as-prepared CdS/rGO composites have a wide and strong photo absorption in the visible region and display a substantially improved photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue under visible light irradiation by forming a heterojunction of rGO and CdS. However, too much rGO will shield the light of the active sites for the CdS nanoparticle surface and thus limit further improvement in the photocatalytic efficiency.

  6. Preparation of Layered-Spinel Microsphere/Reduced Graphene Oxide Cathode Materials for Ultrafast Charge-Discharge Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Luo, Dong; Fang, Shaohua; Yang, Li; Hirano, Shin-Ichi

    2017-12-22

    Although Li-rich layered oxides (LLOs) have the highest capacity of any cathodes used, the rate capability of LLOs falls short of meeting the requirements of electric vehicles and smart grids. Herein, a layered-spinel microsphere/reduced graphene oxide heterostructured cathode (LS@rGO) is prepared in situ. This cathode is composed of a spinel phase, two layered structures, and a small amount of reduced graphene oxide (1.08 wt % of carbon). The assembly delivers a considerable charge capacity (145 mA h g -1 ) at an ultrahigh charge- discharge rate of 60 C (12 A g -1 ). The rate capability of LS@rGO is influenced by the introduced spinel phase and rGO. X-ray absorption and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data indicate that Cr ions move from octahedral lattice sites to tetrahedral lattice sites, and that Mn ions do not participate in the oxidation reaction during the initial charge process. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. Reduced Graphene Oxide/Carbon Nanotube Composites as Electrochemical Energy Storage Electrode Applications.

    PubMed

    Yang, Wenyao; Chen, Yan; Wang, Jingfeng; Peng, Tianjun; Xu, Jianhua; Yang, Bangchao; Tang, Ke

    2018-06-15

    We demonstrate an electrochemical reduction method to reduce graphene oxide (GO) to electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) with the assistance of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The faster and more efficient reduction of GO can be achieved after proper addition of CNTs into GO during the reduction process. This nanotube/nanosheet composite was deposited on electrode as active material for electrochemical energy storage applications. It has been found that the specific capacitance of the composite film was strongly affected by the mass ratio of GO/CNTs and the scanning ratio of cyclic voltammetry. The obtained ERGO/CNT composite electrode exhibited a 279.4 F/g-specific capacitance and showed good cycle rate performance with the evidence that the specific capacitance maintained above 90% after 6000 cycles. The synergistic effect between ERGO and CNTs as well as crossing over of CNTs into ERGO is attributed to the high electrochemical performance of composite electrode.

  8. A One-Step, Solvothermal Reduction Method for Producing Reduced Graphene Oxide Dispersions in Organic Solvents

    PubMed Central

    Dubin, Sergey; Gilje, Scott; Wang, Kan; Tung, Vincent C.; Cha, Kitty; Hall, Anthony S.; Farrar, Jabari; Varshneya, Rupal; Yang, Yang; Kaner, Richard B.

    2014-01-01

    Refluxing graphene oxide (GO) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP) results in deoxygenation and reduction to yield a stable colloidal dispersion. The solvothermal reduction is accompanied by a color change from light brown to black. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the product confirm the presence of single sheets of the solvothermally reduced graphene oxide (SRGO). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of SRGO indicates a significant increase in intensity of the C=C bond character, while the oxygen content decreases markedly after the reduction is complete. X-ray diffraction analysis of SRGO shows a single broad peak at 26.24° 2θ (3.4 Å), confirming the presence of graphitic stacking of reduced sheets. SRGO sheets are redispersible in a variety of organic solvents, which may hold promise as an acceptor material for bulk heterojunction photovoltaic cells, or electromagnetic interference shielding applications. PMID:20586422

  9. Reduced humic acid nanosheets and its uses as nanofiller

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Duraia, El-shazly M.; Henderson, B.; Beall, Gary W.

    2015-10-01

    Leonardite is highly oxidized form of lignite coal and contains a number of carboxyl groups around the edges of a graphene-like core. A novel approach has been developed to synthesize graphene oxide-like nanosheets in large scale utilizing leonardite as a starting material. Humic acid extracted from leonardite has been reduced by performing a high pressure catalytic hydrogenation. The reaction was carried out inside a high pressure stirred reactor at 150 °C and 750 psi (~5.2×106 Pa). Morphology of the as-synthesized samples showed porous platy particles and EDAX analysis indicates the carbon and oxygen atomic ratios as 96:4-97:3%. The as-synthesized material has been used as nanofiller in polyurethane. The reduced humic acid-polyurethane nanocomposite showed over 250% increase of Young's modulus. This new approach provides a low cost and scalable source for graphene oxide-like nanosheets in nanocomposite applications.

  10. Sulfonated reduced graphene oxide as a highly efficient catalyst for direct amidation of carboxylic acids with amines using ultrasonic irradiation.

    PubMed

    Mirza-Aghayan, Maryam; Tavana, Mahdieh Molaee; Boukherroub, Rabah

    2016-03-01

    Sulfonated reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (rGO-SO3H) were prepared by grafting sulfonic acid-containing aryl radicals onto chemically reduced graphene oxide (rGO) under sonochemical conditions. rGO-SO3H catalyst was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). rGO-SO3H catalyst was successfully applied as a reusable solid acid catalyst for the direct amidation of carboxylic acids with amines into the corresponding amides under ultrasonic irradiation. The direct sonochemical amidation of carboxylic acid takes place under mild conditions affording in good to high yields (56-95%) the corresponding amides in short reaction times. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Polyaniline/Fe3O4-RGO Nanocomposites for Microwave Absorption

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mathew, Jithin; Sathishkumar, M.; Kothurkar, Nikhil K.; Senthilkumar, R.; Sabarish Narayanan, B.

    2018-02-01

    Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized by co-precipitation of ferric chloride (FeCl3) and ferrous chloride (FeCl2). Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was prepared by reducing the graphene oxide, which was synthesized by Hummer’s method, using hydrazine hydrate. Three nanocomposites based on sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate (SDBS)-doped polyaniline were synthesized through in situ polymerization in the presence of the fillers (i) Fe3O4, (ii) reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and (iii) Fe3O4-decorated RGO respectively. The synthesized PANI and the composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Their microstructures, electrical conductivities, and EMI shielding effectiveness were studied. The nanocomposite containing 10 % RGO showed the maximum electrical conductivity and the one with 10 % RGO and 10 % Fe3O4 showed the maximum EMI shielding effectiveness of 7.5 dB for a 1 mm thick sample.

  12. An ultraviolet photodetector fabricated from WO₃ nanodiscs/reduced graphene oxide composite material.

    PubMed

    Shao, Dali; Yu, Mingpeng; Lian, Jie; Sawyer, Shayla

    2013-07-26

    A high sensitivity, fast ultraviolet (UV) photodetector was fabricated from WO₃ nanodiscs (NDs)/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) composite material. The WO₃ NDs/reduced GO composite material was synthesized using a facile three-step synthesis procedure. First, the Na₂WO₄/GO precursor was synthesized by homogeneous precipitation. Second, the Na₂WO₄/GO precursor was transformed into Na₂WO₄/GO composites by acidification. Finally, the Na₂WO₄/GO composites were reduced to WO₃ NDs/RGO via a hydrothermal reduction process. The UV photodetector showed a fast transient response and high responsivity, which are attributed to the improved carrier transport and collection efficiency through graphene. The excellent material properties of the WO₃ NDs/RGO composite demonstrated in this work may open up new possibilities for using WO₃ NDs/RGO for future optoelectronic applications.

  13. Optimizing Performance Parameters of Chemically-Derived Graphene/p-Si Heterojunction Solar Cell.

    PubMed

    Batra, Kamal; Nayak, Sasmita; Behura, Sanjay K; Jani, Omkar

    2015-07-01

    Chemically-derived graphene have been synthesized by modified Hummers method and reduced using sodium borohydride. To explore the potential for photovoltaic applications, graphene/p-silicon (Si) heterojunction devices were fabricated using a simple and cost effective technique called spin coating. The SEM analysis shows the formation of graphene oxide (GO) flakes which become smooth after reduction. The absence of oxygen containing functional groups, as observed in FT-IR spectra, reveals the reduction of GO, i.e., reduced graphene oxide (rGO). It was further confirmed by Raman analysis, which shows slight reduction in G-band intensity with respect to D-band. Hall effect measurement confirmed n-type nature of rGO. Therefore, an effort has been made to simu- late rGO/p-Si heterojunction device by using the one-dimensional solar cell capacitance software, considering the experimentally derived parameters. The detail analysis of the effects of Si thickness, graphene thickness and temperature on the performance of the device has been presented.

  14. Role of oxygen functional groups in reduced graphene oxide for lubrication

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Bhavana; Kumar, Niranjan; Panda, Kalpataru; Kanan, Vigneshwaran; Joshi, Shailesh; Visoly-Fisher, Iris

    2017-01-01

    Functionalized and fully characterized graphene-based lubricant additives are potential 2D materials for energy-efficient tribological applications in machine elements, especially at macroscopic contacts. Two different reduced graphene oxide (rGO) derivatives, terminated by hydroxyl and epoxy-hydroxyl groups, were prepared and blended with two different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol (PEG) for tribological investigation. Epoxy-hydroxyl-terminated rGO dispersed in PEG showed significantly smaller values of the friction coefficient. In this condition, PEG chains intercalate between the functionalized graphene sheets, and shear can take place between the PEG and rGO sheets. However, the friction coefficient was unaffected when hydroxyl-terminated rGO was coupled with PEG. This can be explained by the strong coupling between graphene sheets through hydroxyl units, causing the interaction of PEG with the rGO to be non- effective for lubrication. On the other hand, antiwear properties of hydroxyl-terminated rGO were significantly enhanced compared to epoxy-hydroxyl functionalized rGO due to the integrity of graphene sheet clusters. PMID:28344337

  15. Synthesis and properties of graphene oxide/graphene nanostructures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kapitanova, O. O.; Panin, G. N.; Baranov, A. N.; Kang, T. W.

    2012-05-01

    We report preparation of graphene oxide (GO)/graphene (G) nanostructures and their structural, optical and electrical properties. GO was synthesized through oxidation of graphite by using the modified Hummer's method, in which a long oxidation time was combined with a highly effective method for purifying the reaction products. The obtained GO was partially reduced (r-GO) by adding ascorbic acid and thermal annealing. An electrical reduction/oxidation process in r-GO under an electric field was used to form and control the GO/G nanostructures and the potential barrier at the interface. After the treatment, the ratio of the intensity of peak G (1578 cm-1) to that of peak D (1357 cm-1) in Raman spectra of the samples is increased, which is attributed to an increase in the ratio between the sp2 and sp3 regions. The electrical and the luminescence characteristics of the GO/G nanostructures were investigated.

  16. Re-investigation on reduced graphene oxide/Ag2CO3 composite photocatalyst: An insight into the double-edged sword role of RGO

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Wenguang; Liu, Yuan; Zhang, Haiyan; Qian, Yannan; Guo, Zuchen

    2017-02-01

    Coupling graphene or reduced graphene oxide (RGO) with semiconductor photocatalysts has previously been proven to be an effective way for enhancing the photocatalytic activity and stability of the photocatalysts. Herein, the Ag2CO3/reduced graphene oxide composite was successfully prepared by a facile chemical precipitation method. The physical and chemical properties of the photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectra, scanning electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-vis diffuse-reflection spectra. The photocatalytic activity and cycling stability of the photocatalysts were evaluated by photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B under visible light irradiation. The results showed that the RGO indeed improves the photocatalytic activity of Ag2CO3/RGO, which can be attributed to the reduced charge recombination and enhanced dye adsorption as well as the light harvesting by RGO. Nevertheless, it played a negative role to the photocatalytic cycling stability due to the strong aggregation of Ag2CO3 particles brought by the RGO sheets. This work may provide a re-examination of the role of RGO in enhancing the photocatalytic performances of the photocatalysts.

  17. Plasmonic Properties of Silicon Nanocrystals Doped with Boron and Phosphorus.

    PubMed

    Kramer, Nicolaas J; Schramke, Katelyn S; Kortshagen, Uwe R

    2015-08-12

    Degenerately doped silicon nanocrystals are appealing plasmonic materials due to silicon's low cost and low toxicity. While surface plasmonic resonances of boron-doped and phosphorus-doped silicon nanocrystals were recently observed, there currently is poor understanding of the effect of surface conditions on their plasmonic behavior. Here, we demonstrate that phosphorus-doped silicon nanocrystals exhibit a plasmon resonance immediately after their synthesis but may lose their plasmonic response with oxidation. In contrast, boron-doped nanocrystals initially do not exhibit plasmonic response but become plasmonically active through postsynthesis oxidation or annealing. We interpret these results in terms of substitutional doping being the dominant doping mechanism for phosphorus-doped silicon nanocrystals, with oxidation-induced defects trapping free electrons. The behavior of boron-doped silicon nanocrystals is more consistent with a strong contribution of surface doping. Importantly, boron-doped silicon nanocrystals exhibit air-stable plasmonic behavior over periods of more than a year.

  18. Metal-free current collectors based on graphene materials for supecapacitors produced by 3D printing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baskakov, S. A.; Baskakova, Yu. V.; Lyskov, N. V.; Dremova, N. N.; Shul'ga, Yu. M.

    2017-10-01

    Supercapacitor (SC) current collectors with electrodes made of graphite oxide reduced during microwave exfoliation are produced from a commercial filament with a graphene component via layer-by-layer fusing with a 3D printer. The separator is made of a graphene oxide film. The current collectors are investigated by means of IR spectroscopy. Electrochemical tests are performed for the assembled SC that include tests of its cyclic stability up to 1000 cycles.

  19. DFT studies on the heterogeneous oxidation of SO2 by oxygen functional groups on graphene.

    PubMed

    He, Guangzhi; He, Hong

    2016-11-23

    The heterogeneous oxidation of SO 2 has been the subject of intense scrutiny in atmospheric chemistry because of the adverse effects of sulfate particles. Although it has been found that the soot particles with a graphene-like structure play an important role in the oxidation of SO 2 , little is known about the atomic-level mechanism involved. Here, we studied the oxidation of SO 2 on oxygen-functionalized graphene using density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The results showed that SO 2 is oxidized by the epoxide group via a two-step mechanism, where the C-O bond away from the SO 2 is broken first, followed by the breaking of the other C-O bond and the synchronous formation of a new S-O bond. The energy barriers are significantly decreased when solvation free energies are involved, suggesting that humidity is favorable for promoting the oxidation by reducing the reaction barrier. The energy barriers for H 2 SO 3 oxidation are much higher than that for SO 2 oxidation, indicating that the direct conversion of SO 2 to SO 3 is the main pathway for the oxidation of SO 2 by oxygen-functionalized graphene sheets in both the gas phase and solution. The reduced density gradient (RDG) analysis showed that the hydrogen bond formed between H 2 SO 3 and epoxide groups enhances the stability of the reaction complex, and is responsible for the high energy barrier that has to be overcome for the reaction to proceed. These atomistic studies proposed a two-step mechanism for the oxidation of SO 2 on the oxygen-functionalized graphene-like carbonaceous surfaces under ambient conditions.

  20. Polyaniline-stabilized electromagnetic wave absorption composites of reduced graphene oxide on magnetic carbon nanotube film

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Jinsong; Duan, Yan; Lu, Weibang; Chou, Tsu-Wei

    2018-04-01

    A multi-layered composite with exceptionally high electromagnetic wave-absorbing capacity and performance stability was fabricated via the facile electrophoresis of a reduced graphene oxide network on carbon nanotube (CNT)-Fe3O4-polyaniline (PANI) film. Minimum reflection loss (RL) of -53.2 dB and absorbing bandwidth of 5.87 GHz (< -10 dB) are achieved, surpassing most recently reported CNT- and graphene-based absorbers. In particular, comparing to the original composites, the minimum RL and bandwidth (< -10 dB) maintains 82.5% and 99.7%, respectively, after 20 h charge/discharge cycling, demonstrating high environmental suitability.

  1. Vector rectangular-shape laser based on reduced graphene oxide interacting with a long fiber taper.

    PubMed

    Gao, Lei; Zhu, Tao; Huang, Wei; Zeng, Jing

    2014-10-01

    A vector dual-wavelength rectangular-shape laser (RSL) based on a long fiber taper deposited with reduced graphene oxide is proposed, where nonlinearity is enhanced due to a large evanescent-field-interacting length and strong field confinement of an 8 mm fiber taper with a waist diameter of 4 μm. Graphene flakes are deposited uniformly on the taper waist with light pressure effect, so this structure guarantees both excellent saturable absorption and high nonlinearity. The RSL with a repetition rate of 7.9 MHz shows fast polarization switching in two orthogonal polarization directions, and temporal and spectral characteristics are investigated.

  2. Fe2O3/Reduced Graphene Oxide/Fe3O4 Composite in Situ Grown on Fe Foil for High-Performance Supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Chongjun; Shao, Xiaoxiao; Zhang, Yuxiao; Qian, Xiuzhen

    2016-11-09

    A Fe 2 O 3 /reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposite in situ grown on Fe foil was synthesized via a simple one-step hydrothermal growth process, where the iron foil served as support, reductant of graphene oxide, Fe source of Fe 3 O 4 , and also the current collector of the electrode. When it directly acted as the electrode of a supercapacitor, as-synthesized Fe 2 O 3 /RGO/Fe 3 O 4 @Fe exhibited excellent electrochemical performance with a high capability of 337.5 mF/cm 2 at 20 mA/cm 2 and a superior cyclability with 2.3% capacity loss from the 600th to the 2000th cycle.

  3. Square-wave stripping voltammetric determination of caffeic acid on electrochemically reduced graphene oxide-Nafion composite film.

    PubMed

    Filik, Hayati; Çetintaş, Gamze; Avan, Asiye Aslıhan; Aydar, Sevda; Koç, Serkan Naci; Boz, İsmail

    2013-11-15

    An electrochemical sensor composed of Nafion-graphene nanocomposite film for the voltammetric determination of caffeic acid (CA) was studied. A Nafion graphene oxide-modified glassy carbon electrode was fabricated by a simple drop-casting method and then graphene oxide was electrochemically reduced over the glassy carbon electrode. The electrochemical analysis method was based on the adsorption of caffeic acid on Nafion/ER-GO/GCE and then the oxidation of CA during the stripping step. The resulting electrode showed an excellent electrocatalytical response to the oxidation of caffeic acid (CA). The electrochemistry of caffeic acid on Nafion/ER-GO modified glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs) were studied by cyclic voltammetry and square-wave adsorption stripping voltammetry (SW-AdSV). At optimized test conditions, the calibration curve for CA showed two linear segments: the first linear segment increased from 0.1 to 1.5 and second linear segment increased up to 10 µM. The detection limit was determined as 9.1×10(-8) mol L(-1) using SW-AdSV. Finally, the proposed method was successfully used to determine CA in white wine samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. An investigation on the photoelectrochemical properties of dye-sensitized solar cells based on graphene-TiO2 composite photoanodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Menghua; Li, Xin; Liu, Weiwei; Cui, Ying

    2014-09-01

    The graphene-TiO2 nanocomposite has been prepared by mixing graphene oxide (GO) and tetra-n-butyl titanate (TBT) followed by the facile hydrothermal process when the reduction of GO to reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and the hydrolysis of TBT to TiO2 happen. Characterization of the graphene-TiO2 nanostructures is investigated in detail by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. A dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) based on graphene-TiO2 composite photoelectrode exhibits a high energy conversion efficiency of 4.28%, compared with a DSSC based on pure TiO2 photoelectrode (3.11%), accompanied by an increment in both short-circuit photocurrent density and open-circuit voltage. The significant enhancement in performance of DSSC is investigated through intensity-modulated photovoltage spectroscopy, intensity-modulated photocurrent spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. It is found that the incorporation of two-dimensional graphene nanosheets in the TiO2 electrodes is the key factor leading to the improved photogenerated electron transfer ability and reduced charge recombination.

  5. A review on chemiresistive room temperature gas sensors based on metal oxide nanostructures, graphene and 2D transition metal dichalcogenides.

    PubMed

    Joshi, Nirav; Hayasaka, Takeshi; Liu, Yumeng; Liu, Huiliang; Oliveira, Osvaldo N; Lin, Liwei

    2018-03-10

    Room-temperature (RT) gas sensing is desirable for battery-powered or self-powered instrumentation that can monitor emissions associated with pollution and industrial processes. This review (with 171 references) discusses recent advances in three types of porous nanostructures that have shown remarkable potential for RT gas sensing. The first group comprises hierarchical oxide nanostructures (mainly oxides of Sn, Ni, Zn, W, In, La, Fe, Co). The second group comprises graphene and its derivatives (graphene, graphene oxides, reduced graphene oxides, and their composites with metal oxides and noble metals). The third group comprises 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (mainly sulfides of Mo, W, Sn, Ni, also in combination with metal oxides). They all have been found to enable RT sensing of gases such as NOx, NH 3 , H 2 , SO 2 , CO, and of vapors such as of acetone, formaldehyde or methanol. Attractive features also include high selectivity and sensitivity, long-term stability and affordable costs. Strengths and limitations of these materials are highlighted, and prospects with respect to the development of new materials to overcome existing limitations are discussed. Graphical Abstract The review summarizes the most significant progresses related to room temperature gas sensing by using hierarchical oxide nanostructures, graphene and its derivatives and 2D transition metal dichalcogenides, highlighting the peculiar gas sensing behavior with enhanced selectivity, sensitivity and long-term stability.

  6. Silver nanoparticles anchored reduced graphene oxide for enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards methanol oxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Sanjeev; Mahajan, Mani; Singh, Rajinder; Mahajan, Aman

    2018-02-01

    In this report, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) anchored reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets (rGO/Ag) nanohybrid has been explored as anode material in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The synthesized rGO/Ag nanohybrid is characterized by XRD, XPS, FTIR spectroscopy and HRTEM techniques. Cyclic voltammograms demonstrate that the rGO/Ag nanohybrid exhibits higher electrocatalytic activity in comparison to rGO sheets for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). This enhancement is attributed to the synergetic effect produced by the presence of more active sites provided by Ag NPs anchored on a conducting network of large surface area rGO sheets.

  7. Progress of reduction of graphene oxide by ascorbic acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    De Silva, K. Kanishka H.; Huang, Hsin-Hui; Yoshimura, Masamichi

    2018-07-01

    Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) are in greater demand in many research fields. As a result, the synthesis of these materials on a large scale in a costeffective manner is more concerned for numerous applications. In the present work, GO was synthesized by oxidizing natural graphite and reduced by ascorbic acid (AA), which is a green reductant. The reduced products obtained at different time periods were in detail characterized by UV-Visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results showed that the oxidation of graphite has given highly oxidized GO with a 9.30 Å interlayer space and about 33% of oxygen atomic percentage. Until 50 min of the reduction, both GO and RGO coexist. The reduction rate is fast within the first 30 min. In addition, the suitability of natural graphite over synthetic graphite for the synthesis of GO is shown. The findings of this work pave the way to select GO and RGO for applications of interest in a cheap, green and efficient manner.

  8. Synergistic effect of shape-selective silver nanostructures decorating reduced graphene oxide nanoplatelets for enhanced cytotoxicity against breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Derakhshi, Maryam; Ashkarran, Ali Akbar; Bahari, Ali; Bonakdar, Shahin

    2018-07-13

    Graphene-based nanomaterials contain unique physicochemical properties and have been widely investigated due to a variety of applications particularly in cancer therapy. Furthermore, Ag has been known for its extensive historical background for biomedical applications. Therefore, conjugation of shape-selective Ag nanostructures with graphene may provide new horizons for pharmaceutical applications such as cancer treatments. Here we report on the synthesis of Ag nanoparticles (NPs)/reduced graphene oxide (AgNPs/RGO) conjugate nanomaterials containing various shapes of AgNPs by a novel and simple synthesis route using the deformation of dimethylformamide (DMF) as the reducing and coupling agent. The cytotoxicity and anticancer properties of AgNPs, AgNPs/RGO conjugate nanomaterials, RGO and graphene oxide (GO) were probed against MDA-MB-231 cancer and MCF-10A normal human breast cells in vitro. The AgNPs/RGO nanocomposites exhibited a strong anticancer effect by penetration and apoptosis in cancer cells as well as the lowest influence on the viability of normal cells. It was found that cancer cell viability not only depends on the geometry of Ag nanostructures but also on the interaction between AgNPs and RGO nanoplatelets. It is suggested that AgNPs/RGO conjugate nanomaterials with various shapes of AgNPs is a promising therapeutic platform for cancer therapy.

  9. Synergistic effect of shape-selective silver nanostructures decorating reduced graphene oxide nanoplatelets for enhanced cytotoxicity against breast cancer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Derakhshi, Maryam; Ashkarran, Ali Akbar; Bahari, Ali; Bonakdar, Shahin

    2018-07-01

    Graphene-based nanomaterials contain unique physicochemical properties and have been widely investigated due to a variety of applications particularly in cancer therapy. Furthermore, Ag has been known for its extensive historical background for biomedical applications. Therefore, conjugation of shape-selective Ag nanostructures with graphene may provide new horizons for pharmaceutical applications such as cancer treatments. Here we report on the synthesis of Ag nanoparticles (NPs)/reduced graphene oxide (AgNPs/RGO) conjugate nanomaterials containing various shapes of AgNPs by a novel and simple synthesis route using the deformation of dimethylformamide (DMF) as the reducing and coupling agent. The cytotoxicity and anticancer properties of AgNPs, AgNPs/RGO conjugate nanomaterials, RGO and graphene oxide (GO) were probed against MDA-MB-231 cancer and MCF-10A normal human breast cells in vitro. The AgNPs/RGO nanocomposites exhibited a strong anticancer effect by penetration and apoptosis in cancer cells as well as the lowest influence on the viability of normal cells. It was found that cancer cell viability not only depends on the geometry of Ag nanostructures but also on the interaction between AgNPs and RGO nanoplatelets. It is suggested that AgNPs/RGO conjugate nanomaterials with various shapes of AgNPs is a promising therapeutic platform for cancer therapy.

  10. Electrochemically reduced graphene-oxide supported bimetallic nanoparticles highly efficient for oxygen reduction reaction with excellent methanol tolerance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yasmin, Sabina; Cho, Sung; Jeon, Seungwon

    2018-03-01

    We report a simple and facile method for the fabrication of bimetallic nanoparticles on electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ErGO) for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. First, reduced graphene oxide supported palladium and manganese oxide nanoparticle (rGO/Pd-Mn2O3) catalyst was synthesized via a simple chemical method at room temperature; then, it was electrochemically reduced for oxidation reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. The chemical composition and morphological properties of ErGO/Pd-Mn2O3 was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The TEM images reveals that, nano-sized Pd and Mn2O3 particles were disperse on the ErGO sheet without aggregation. The as-prepared ErGO/Pd-Mn2O3 was employed for ORR in alkaline media which shows higher ORR activity with more positive onset and half-wave potential, respectively. Remarkably, ErGO/Pd-Mn2O3 reduced oxygen via four-electron transfer pathway with negligible amount of intermediate peroxide species (HO2-). Furthermore, the higher stability and excellent methanol tolerance of the ErGO/Pd-Mn2O3 compared to commercial Pt/C (20 wt%) catalyst, indicating its suitability for fuel cells.

  11. Enhancement of Catalytic Activity of Reduced Graphene Oxide Via Transition Metal Doping Strategy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Hangil; Hong, Jung A.

    2017-06-01

    To compare the catalytic oxidation activities of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and rGO samples doped with five different transition metals (TM-rGO), we determine their effects on the oxidation of L-cysteine (Cys) in aqueous solution by performing electrochemistry (EC) measurements and on the photocatalytic oxidation of Cys by using high-resolution photoemission spectroscopy (HRPES) under UV illumination. Our results show that Cr-, Fe-, and Co-doped rGO with 3+ charge states (stable oxide forms: Cr3+, Fe3+, and Co3+) exhibit enhanced catalytic activities that are due to the charge states of the doped metal ions as we compare them with Cr-, Fe-, and Co-doped rGO with 2+ charge states.

  12. Comparison on graphite, graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide: Synthesis and characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hidayah, N. M. S.; Liu, Wei-Wen; Lai, Chin-Wei; Noriman, N. Z.; Khe, Cheng-Seong; Hashim, U.; Lee, H. Cheun

    2017-10-01

    Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) are known to have superior properties for various applications. This work compares the properties of GO and RGO with graphite. GO was prepared by using Improved Hummer's method whereas the produced GO was subjected to chemical reduction with the use of hydrazine hydrate. Graphite, GO and RGO had different morphologies, quality, functionalized groups, UV-Vis absorption peaks and crystallinity. With the removal of oxygen-containing functional group during reduction for RGO, the quality of samples was decreased due to higher intensity of D band than G band was seen in Raman results. In addition, platelet-like surface can be observed on the surface of graphite as compared to GO and RGO where wrinkled and layered flakes, and crumpled thin sheets were observed on GO and RGO surface respectively. Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) analysis showed the presence of abundant oxygen-containing functional groups in GO as compared to RGO and graphite. The characteristic peaks at 26.62°, 9.03° and 24.10° for graphite, GO and RGO, respectively, can be detected from X-Ray diffraction (XRD). Furthermore, the reduction also caused red shift at 279nm from 238nm, as obtained from ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) analysis. The results proved that GO was successfully oxidized from graphite whereas RGO was effectively reduced from GO.

  13. Multi-layered zinc oxide-graphene composite thin films for selective nitrogen dioxide sensing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ghosh, A.; Bhowmick, T.; Majumder, S. B.

    2018-02-01

    In the present work, selective nitrogen dioxide (NO2) sensing characteristics of multi-layered graphene-zinc oxide (G-ZnO) thin films have been demonstrated at 150 °C. The response% of 5 ppm NO2 was measured to be 894% with response and recovery times estimated to be 150 s and 315 s, respectively. In these composite films, the interaction between graphene and zinc oxide is established through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy in conjunction with the analyses of photoluminescence spectra. Superior NO2 sensing of these films is due to simultaneous chemiadsorption of molecular oxygen and NO2 gases onto graphene and ZnO surfaces, resulting in an appreciable increase in the depletion layer width and thereby the sensor resistance. The sensor responses for other reducing gases (viz., CO, H2, and i-C4H10) are postulated to be due to their catalytic oxidation on the sensor surface, resulting in a decrease in the sensor resistance upon gas exposure. At lower operating temperature, due to the molecular nature of the chemiadsorbed oxygen, poor catalytic oxidation leads to a far lower sensor response for reducing gases as compared to NO2. For mixed NO2 and reducing gas sensing, we have reported that fast Fourier transformation of the resistance transients of all these gases in conjunction with principal component analyses forms a reasonably distinct cluster and, therefore, could easily be differentiated.

  14. Chitosan-graphene oxide films and CO2-dried porous aerogel microspheres: Interfacial interplay and stability.

    PubMed

    Frindy, Sana; Primo, Ana; Ennajih, Hamid; El Kacem Qaiss, Abou; Bouhfid, Rachid; Lahcini, Mohamed; Essassi, El Mokhtar; Garcia, Hermenegildo; El Kadib, Abdelkrim

    2017-07-01

    The intimate interplay of chitosan (CS) and graphene oxide (GO) in aqueous acidic solution has been explored to design upon casting, nanostructured "brick-and-mortar" films (CS-GO-f) and by acidic-to-basic pH inversion, porous CO 2 -dried aerogel microspheres (CS-GO-m). Owing to the presence of oxygenated functional groups in GO, good-quality crack-free hybrid films were obtained. Mechanical properties were improved independently of the GO content and it was found that a 20wt% loading affords hybrid film characterized with a Young modulus three times superior to that reached with the same loading of layered clay. The presence of graphene oxide was found to be detrimental for the thermal stability of the polysaccharide at T <350°C, a fact attributed to the well-established decomposition of the oxygenated functional groups of the graphene sheets. Irrespective to the graphene oxide loading, chitosan-graphene oxide mixture preserves the gelation memory of the polysaccharide. Supercritical drying of the resulting soft hydrogels provides macroporous network with surface areas ranging from 226m 2 g -1 to 554m 2 g -1 . XPS and RAMAN analyses evidenced the selective reduction of GO sheets inside of these microspheres, affording the hitherto unknown macroporous chitosan-entangled-reduced graphene oxide (CS-rGO-m) aerogels. Improvement in both hydrothermal stability (under water reflux) and chemical stability (under acidic conditions) have been noticed for chitosan-graphene oxide microspheres with respect to non-modified chitosan and chitosan-clay bio-hybrids, a result rooted in the substantial hydrophobic character imparted by the addition of graphenic material to the polysaccharide skeleton. In essence, this contribution demonstrates that graphene oxide loading do not disturb neither the filmogenicity of chitosan nor its gelation ability and constitutes a promising route for novel chitosan-based functional hybrid materials. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Adsorption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on graphene oxides and reduced graphene oxides.

    PubMed

    Sun, Yubing; Yang, Shubin; Zhao, Guixia; Wang, Qi; Wang, Xiangke

    2013-11-01

    Graphene has attracted increasing attention in multidisciplinary studies because of its unique physical and chemical properties. Herein, the adsorption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), such as naphthalene (NAP), anthracene (ANT), and pyrene (PYR), on reduced graphene oxides (rGOs) and graphene oxides (GOs) as a function of pH, humic acid (HA), and temperature were elucidated by means of a batch technique. For comparison, nonpolar and nonporous graphite were also employed in this study. The increasing of pH from 2 to 11 did not influence the adsorption of PAHs on rGOs, whereas the suppressed adsorption of NAP on rGOs was observed both in the presence of HA and under high-temperature conditions. Adsorption isotherms of PAHs on rGOs were in accordance with the Polanyi-Dubinin-Ashtahhov (PDA) model, providing evidence that pore filling and flat surface adsorption were involved. The saturated adsorbed capacities (in mmol g(-1)) of rGOs for PAHs calculated from the PDA model significantly decreased in the order of NAP>PYR>ANT, which was comparable to the results of theoretical calculations. The pore-filling mechanism dominates the adsorption of NAP on rGOs, but the adsorption mechanisms of ANT and PYR on rGOs are flat surface adsorption. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. Differences in inflammation and acute phase response but similar genotoxicity in mice following pulmonary exposure to graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide

    PubMed Central

    Bengtson, Stefan; Knudsen, Kristina B.; Kyjovska, Zdenka O.; Berthing, Trine; Skaug, Vidar; Levin, Marcus; Koponen, Ismo K.; Shivayogimath, Abhay; Booth, Timothy J.; Alonso, Beatriz; Pesquera, Amaia; Zurutuza, Amaia; Thomsen, Birthe L.; Troelsen, Jesper T.; Jacobsen, Nicklas R.

    2017-01-01

    We investigated toxicity of 2–3 layered >1 μm sized graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in mice following single intratracheal exposure with respect to pulmonary inflammation, acute phase response (biomarker for risk of cardiovascular disease) and genotoxicity. In addition, we assessed exposure levels of particulate matter emitted during production of graphene in a clean room and in a normal industrial environment using chemical vapour deposition. Toxicity was evaluated at day 1, 3, 28 and 90 days (18, 54 and 162 μg/mouse), except for GO exposed mice at day 28 and 90 where only the lowest dose was evaluated. GO induced a strong acute inflammatory response together with a pulmonary (Serum-Amyloid A, Saa3) and hepatic (Saa1) acute phase response. rGO induced less acute, but a constant and prolonged inflammation up to day 90. Lung histopathology showed particle agglomerates at day 90 without signs of fibrosis. In addition, DNA damage in BAL cells was observed across time points and doses for both GO and rGO. In conclusion, pulmonary exposure to GO and rGO induced inflammation, acute phase response and genotoxicity but no fibrosis. PMID:28570647

  17. Effect of friction on oxidative graphite intercalation and high-quality graphene formation.

    PubMed

    Seiler, Steffen; Halbig, Christian E; Grote, Fabian; Rietsch, Philipp; Börrnert, Felix; Kaiser, Ute; Meyer, Bernd; Eigler, Siegfried

    2018-02-26

    Oxidative wet-chemical delamination of graphene from graphite is expected to become a scalable production method. However, the formation process of the intermediate stage-1 graphite sulfate by sulfuric acid intercalation and its subsequent oxidation are poorly understood and lattice defect formation must be avoided. Here, we demonstrate film formation of micrometer-sized graphene flakes with lattice defects down to 0.02% and visualize the carbon lattice by transmission electron microscopy at atomic resolution. Interestingly, we find that only well-ordered, highly crystalline graphite delaminates into oxo-functionalized graphene, whereas other graphite grades do not form a proper stage-1 intercalate and revert back to graphite upon hydrolysis. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations show that ideal stacking and electronic oxidation of the graphite layers significantly reduce the friction of the moving sulfuric acid molecules, thereby facilitating intercalation. Furthermore, the evaluation of the stability of oxo-species in graphite sulfate supports an oxidation mechanism that obviates intercalation of the oxidant.

  18. Synthesis and characterization of some metal oxide nanocrystals by microwave irradiation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rashad, M.; Gaber, A.; Abdelrahim, M. A.

    2013-12-16

    Copper oxide and cobalt oxide (CuO, Co3O4) nanocrystals (NCs) have been successfully prepared in a short time using microwave irradiation. The resulted powders of nanocrystals (NCs) were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) measurements are also studied. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and UV–visible absorption spectroscopy of both kind of nanoparticels are illustrated. Optical absorption analysis indicated the direct band gap for both kinds of nanocrystals.

  19. Improved heat dissipation in gallium nitride light-emitting diodes with embedded graphene oxide pattern.

    PubMed

    Han, Nam; Cuong, Tran Viet; Han, Min; Ryu, Beo Deul; Chandramohan, S; Park, Jong Bae; Kang, Ji Hye; Park, Young-Jae; Ko, Kang Bok; Kim, Hee Yun; Kim, Hyun Kyu; Ryu, Jae Hyoung; Katharria, Y S; Choi, Chel-Jong; Hong, Chang-Hee

    2013-01-01

    The future of solid-state lighting relies on how the performance parameters will be improved further for developing high-brightness light-emitting diodes. Eventually, heat removal is becoming a crucial issue because the requirement of high brightness necessitates high-operating current densities that would trigger more joule heating. Here we demonstrate that the embedded graphene oxide in a gallium nitride light-emitting diode alleviates the self-heating issues by virtue of its heat-spreading ability and reducing the thermal boundary resistance. The fabrication process involves the generation of scalable graphene oxide microscale patterns on a sapphire substrate, followed by its thermal reduction and epitaxial lateral overgrowth of gallium nitride in a metal-organic chemical vapour deposition system under one-step process. The device with embedded graphene oxide outperforms its conventional counterpart by emitting bright light with relatively low-junction temperature and thermal resistance. This facile strategy may enable integration of large-scale graphene into practical devices for effective heat removal.

  20. Electrophoretically deposited reduced graphene oxide platform for food toxin detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Srivastava, Saurabh; Kumar, Vinod; Ali, Md Azahar; Solanki, Pratima R.; Srivastava, Anchal; Sumana, Gajjala; Saxena, Preeti Suman; Joshi, Amish G.; Malhotra, B. D.

    2013-03-01

    Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) due to its excellent electrochemical properties and large surface area, has recently aroused much interest for electrochemical biosensing application. Here, the chemically active RGO has been synthesized and deposited onto an indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrate by the electrophoretic deposition technique. This novel platform has been utilized for covalent attachment of the monoclonal antibodies of aflatoxin B1 (anti-AFB1) for food toxin (AFB1) detection. The electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and UV-visible studies reveal successful synthesis of reduced graphene oxide while the XPS and FTIR studies suggest its carboxylic functionalized nature. The electrochemical sensing results of the anti-AFB1/RGO/ITO based immunoelectrode obtained as a function of aflatoxin concentration show high sensitivity (68 μA ng-1 mL cm-2) and improved detection limit (0.12 ng mL-1). The association constant (ka) for antigen-antibody interaction obtained as 5 × 10-4 ng mL-1 indicates high affinity of antibodies toward the antigen (AFB1).Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) due to its excellent electrochemical properties and large surface area, has recently aroused much interest for electrochemical biosensing application. Here, the chemically active RGO has been synthesized and deposited onto an indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrate by the electrophoretic deposition technique. This novel platform has been utilized for covalent attachment of the monoclonal antibodies of aflatoxin B1 (anti-AFB1) for food toxin (AFB1) detection. The electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and UV-visible studies reveal successful synthesis of reduced graphene oxide while the XPS and FTIR studies suggest its carboxylic functionalized nature. The electrochemical sensing results of the anti-AFB1/RGO/ITO based immunoelectrode obtained as a function of aflatoxin concentration show high sensitivity (68 μA ng-1 mL cm-2) and improved detection limit (0.12 ng mL-1). The association constant (ka) for antigen-antibody interaction obtained as 5 × 10-4 ng mL-1 indicates high affinity of antibodies toward the antigen (AFB1). Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr32242d

  1. Self-propagating solar light reduction of graphite oxide in water

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Todorova, N.; Giannakopoulou, T.; Boukos, N.; Vermisoglou, E.; Lekakou, C.; Trapalis, C.

    2017-01-01

    Graphite Oxide (GtO) is commonly used as an intermediate material for preparation of graphene in the form of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Being a semiconductor with tunable band gap rGO is often coupled with various photocatalysts to enhance their visible light activity. The behavior of such rGO-based composites could be affected after prolonged exposure to solar light. In the present work, the alteration of the GtO properties under solar light irradiation is investigated. Water dispersions of GtO manufactured by oxidation of natural graphite via Hummers method were irradiated into solar light simulator for different periods of time without addition of catalysts or reductive agent. The FT-IR analysis of the treated dispersions revealed gradual reduction of the GtO with the increase of the irradiation time. The XRD, FT-IR and XPS analyses of the obtained solid materials confirmed the transition of GtO to rGO under solar light irradiation. The reduction of the GtO was also manifested by the CV measurements that revealed stepwise increase of the specific capacitance connected with the restoration of the sp2 domains. Photothermal self-propagating reduction of graphene oxide in aqueous media under solar light irradiation is suggested as a possible mechanism. The self-photoreduction of GtO utilizing solar light provides a green, sustainable route towards preparation of reduced graphene oxide. However, the instability of the GtO and partially reduced GO under irradiation should be considered when choosing the field of its application.

  2. Zeolite A functionalized with copper nanoparticles and graphene oxide for simultaneous electrochemical determination of dopamine and ascorbic acid.

    PubMed

    He, Ping; Wang, Wei; Du, Licheng; Dong, Faqin; Deng, Yuequan; Zhang, Tinghong

    2012-08-20

    A novel Cu-zeolite A/graphene modified glassy carbon electrode for the simultaneous electrochemical determination of dopamine (DA) and ascorbic acid (AA) has been described. The Cu-zeolite A/graphene composites were prepared using Cu(2+) functionalized zeolite A and graphene oxide as the precursor, and subsequently reduced by chemical agents. The composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra and scanning electron microscopy. Based on the Cu-zeolite A/graphene-modified electrode, the potential difference between the oxidation peaks of DA and AA was over 200mV, which was adequate for the simultaneous electrochemical determination of DA and AA. Also the proposed Cu-zeolite/graphene-modified electrode showed higher electrocatalytic performance than zeolite/graphene electrode or graphene-modified electrode. The electrocatalytic oxidation currents of DA and AA were linearly related to the corresponding concentration in the range of 1.0×10(-7)-1.9×10(-5)M for DA and 2.0×10(-5)-2.0×10(-4)M for AA. Detection limits (S/N=3) were estimated to be 4.1×10(-8)M for DA and 1.1×10(-5)M for AA, respectively. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Enhanced catalytic hydrogenation activity of Ni/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite prepared by a solid-state method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Yizhao; Cao, Yali; Jia, Dianzeng

    2018-01-01

    A simple solid-state method has been applied to synthesize Ni/reduced graphene oxide (Ni/rGO) nanocomposite under ambient condition. Ni nanoparticles with size of 10-30 nm supported on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets are obtained through one-pot solid-state co-reduction among nickel chloride, graphene oxide, and sodium borohydride. The Ni/rGO nanohybrid shows enhanced catalytic activity toward the reduction of p-nitrophenol (PNP) into p-aminophenol compared with Ni nanoparticles. The results of kinetic research display that the pseudo-first-order rate constant for hydrogenation reaction of PNP with Ni/rGO nanocomposite is 7.66 × 10-3 s-1, which is higher than that of Ni nanoparticles (4.48 × 10-3 s-1). It also presents superior turnover frequency (TOF, 5.36 h-1) and lower activation energy ( E a, 29.65 kJ mol-1) in the hydrogenation of PNP with Ni/rGO nanocomposite. Furthermore, composite catalyst can be magnetically separated and reused for five cycles. The large surface area and high electron transfer property of rGO support are beneficial for good catalytic performance of Ni/rGO nanocomposite. Our study demonstrates a simple approach to fabricate metal-rGO heterogeneous nanostructures with advanced functions.

  4. 2,3-diaminopyridine functionalized reduced graphene oxide-supported palladium nanoparticles with high activity for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yasmin, Sabina; Joo, Yuri; Jeon, Seungwon

    2017-06-01

    The electrochemical deposition of Pd nanoparticles (Pd NPs) on 2,3 diamino pyridine functionalized reduced graphene oxide (2,3 DAP-rGO/Pd) has been investigated for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. First, 2,3 diaminopyridine functionalized graphene oxide (2,3 DAP-rGO) has been synthesized via simple hydrothermal method. Then, palladium is directly incorporated into the 2,3 DAP-rGO by electrochemical deposition method to generate 2,3 DAP-rGO/Pd composites. The as-prepared material 2,3 DAP-rGO/Pd has been characterized by various instrumental methods. The morphological analysis shows the cluster-like Pd nanoparticles are dispersed onto the 2,3 diamino pyridine functionalized reduced graphene oxide (2,3 DAP-rGO). The electrocatalytic activities have been verified using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and hydrodynamic voltammetry and chronoamperometry techniques in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte. The as-synthesized 2,3 DAP-rGO/Pd shows higher catalytic activity toward ORR with more positive onset potential and cathodic current density, superior methanol/ethanol tolerance and excellent stability in alkaline medium. It is also noteworthy that the 2,3 DAP-rGO/Pd exhibits a four-electron transfer pathway for ORR with lower H2O2 yield.

  5. Green synthesis and characterization of graphene nanosheets

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tavakoli, Farnosh; Salavati-Niasari, Masoud, E-mail: salavati@kashanu.ac.ir; Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, P. O. Box. 87317-51167, Islamic Republic of Iran

    Highlights: • For the first time, we have synthesized graphene nanosheets in the presence of pomegranate juice. • Here pomegranate juice was used not only as reductant but also as capping agent. • FT-IR, XRD, SEM, EDS and TEM were used to characterize the samples. • According to TEM image, graphene nanosheet is individually exfoliated after stirring for 24 h. • As shown in the TEM image, graphene monolayer is obtained. - Abstract: For the first time, we have successfully synthesized graphene nanosheets in the presence of pomegranate juice. In this approach, pomegranate juice was used not only as reductantmore » but also as capping agent to form graphene nanosheets. At first, the improved Hummer method to oxidize graphite for the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) was applied, and then the as-produced graphene oxide was reduced by pomegranate juice to form graphene nanosheets. Fourier transformed infrared (FT-IR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and raman were used to characterize the samples. The results obtained from the characterization techniques proved high purity of the final products.« less

  6. In situ X-ray powder diffraction studies of the synthesis of graphene oxide and formation of reduced graphene oxide

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Storm, Mie Møller, E-mail: mmst@dtu.dk; Johnsen, Rune E.; Norby, Poul

    2016-08-15

    Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are important materials in a wide range of fields. The modified Hummers methods, for synthesizing GO, and subsequent thermal reduction to rGO, are often employed for production of rGO. However, the mechanism behinds these syntheses methods are still unclear. We present an in situ X-ray diffraction study of the synthesis of GO and thermal reduction of GO. The X-ray diffraction revealed that the Hummers method includes an intercalation state and finally formation of additional crystalline material. The formation of GO is observed during both the intercalation and the crystallization stage. During thermalmore » reduction of GO three stages were observed: GO, a disordered stage, and the rGO stage. The appearance of these stages depends on the heating ramp. The aim of this study is to provide deeper insight into the chemical and physical processes during the syntheses. - Graphical abstract: In situ X-ray diffraction results for of the modified Hummers synthesis and the thermal reduction of graphene oxide, revealing three stages for both syntheses as well as new GO diffraction peaks and unidentified crystalline material for the Hummers synthesis and a disordered stage for the thermal reduction of graphene oxide. Display Omitted - Highlights: • Hummers synthesis consists of three stages: dissolution, intercalation and crystal. • GO is produced early on during the synthesis and display new diffraction peaks. • An unidentified triclinic phase is observed for the Hummers synthesis. • Thermal reduction of GO display three stages: GO, a disordered stage and rGO. • In situ XRD indicate reformation of rGO even for fast heated thermal reduction.« less

  7. Synthesis of visible-light responsive graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites with p/n heterojunction.

    PubMed

    Chen, Chao; Cai, Weimin; Long, Mingce; Zhou, Baoxue; Wu, Yahui; Wu, Deyong; Feng, Yujie

    2010-11-23

    Graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites were prepared by using TiCl(3) and graphene oxide as reactants. The concentration of graphene oxide in starting solution played an important role in photoelectronic and photocatalytic performance of graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites. Either a p-type or n-type semiconductor was formed by graphene oxide in graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites. These semiconductors could be excited by visible light with wavelengths longer than 510 nm and acted as sensitizer in graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites. Visible-light driven photocatalytic performance of graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites in degradation of methyl orange was also studied. Crystalline quality and chemical states of carbon elements from graphene oxide in graphene oxide/TiO(2) composites depended on the concentration of graphene oxide in the starting solution. This study shows a possible way to fabricate graphene oxide/semiconductor composites with different properties by using a tunable semiconductor conductivity type of graphene oxide.

  8. Facile synthesis of porous Pt-Pd nanospheres supported on reduced graphene oxide nanosheets for enhanced methanol electrooxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Shan-Shan; Lv, Jing-Jing; Hu, Yuan-Yuan; Zheng, Jie-Ning; Chen, Jian-Rong; Wang, Ai-Jun; Feng, Jiu-Ju

    2014-02-01

    In this study, a simple, facile, and effective wet-chemical strategy was developed in the synthesis of uniform porous Pt-Pd nanospheres (Pt-Pd NSs) supported on reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (RGOs) under ambient temperature, where octylphenoxypolye thoxyethanol (NP-40) is used as a soft template, without any seed, organic solvent or special instruments. The as-prepared nanocomposites display enhanced electrocatalytic activity and good stability toward methanol oxidation, compared with commercial Pd/C and Pt/C catalysts. This strategy may open a new route to design and prepare advanced electrocatalysts for fuel cells.

  9. Heteroatom Nitrogen- and Boron-Doping as a Facile Strategy to Improve Photocatalytic Activity of Standalone Reduced Graphene Oxide in Hydrogen Evolution.

    PubMed

    Putri, Lutfi K; Ng, Boon-Junn; Ong, Wee-Jun; Lee, Hing Wah; Chang, Wei Sea; Chai, Siang-Piao

    2017-02-08

    Owing to its superior properties and versatility, graphene has been proliferating the energy research scene in the past decade. In this contribution, nitrogen (N-) and boron (B-) doped reduced graphene oxide (rGO) variants were investigated as a sole photocatalyst for the green production of H 2 and their properties with respect to photocatalysis were elucidated for the first time. N- and B-rGOs were facilely prepared via the pyrolysis of graphene oxide with urea and boron anhydride as their respective dopant source. The pyrolysis temperature was varied (600-800 °C for N-rGO and 800-1000 °C for B-rGO) in order to modify dopant loading percentage (%) which was found to be influential to photocatalytic activity. N-rGO600 (8.26 N at%) and B-rGO1000 (3.59 B at%), which holds the highest at% from each of their party, exhibited the highest H 2 activity. Additionally, the effects of the nature of N and B bonding configuration in H 2 photoactivity were also examined. This study demonstrates the importance of dopant atoms in graphene, rendering doping as an effective strategy to bolster photocatalytic activity for standalone graphene derivative photocatalysts.

  10. Effect of pristine graphene incorporation on charge storage mechanism of three-dimensional graphene oxide: superior energy and power density retention

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Kiran Pal; Bhattacharjya, Dhrubajyoti; Razmjooei, Fatemeh; Yu, Jong-Sung

    2016-01-01

    In the race of gaining higher energy density, carbon’s capacity to retain power density is generally lost due to defect incorporation and resistance increment in carbon electrode. Herein, a relationship between charge carrier density/charge movement and supercapacitance performance is established. For this purpose we have incorporated the most defect-free pristine graphene into defective/sacrificial graphene oxide. A unique co-solvent-based technique is applied to get a homogeneous suspension of single to bi-layer graphene and graphene oxide. This suspension is then transformed into a 3D composite structure of pristine graphene sheets (GSs) and defective N-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-RGO), which is the first stable and homogenous 3D composite between GS and RGO to the best of our knowledge. It is found that incorporation of pristine graphene can drastically decrease defect density and thus decrease relaxation time due to improved associations between electrons in GS and ions in electrolyte. Furthermore, N doping is implemented selectively only on RGO and such doping is shown to improve the charge carrier density of the composite, which eventually improves the energy density. After all, the novel 3D composite structure of N-RGO and GS greatly improves energy and power density even at high current density (20 A/g). PMID:27530441

  11. In situ functionalization and PEO coating of iron oxide nanocrystals using seeded emulsion polymerization.

    PubMed

    Kloust, Hauke; Schmidtke, Christian; Feld, Artur; Schotten, Theo; Eggers, Robin; Fittschen, Ursula E A; Schulz, Florian; Pöselt, Elmar; Ostermann, Johannes; Bastús, Neus G; Weller, Horst

    2013-04-16

    Herein we demonstrate that seeded emulsion polymerization is a powerful tool to produce multiply functionalized PEO coated iron oxide nanocrystals. Advantageously, by simple addition of functional surfactants, functional monomers, or functional polymerizable linkers-solely or in combinations thereof-during the seeded emulsion polymerization process, a broad range of in situ functionalized polymer-coated iron oxide nanocrystals were obtained. This was demonstrated by purposeful modulation of the zeta potential of encapsulated iron oxide nanocrystals and conjugation of a dyestuff. Successful functionalization was unequivocally proven by TXRF. Furthermore, the spatial position of the functional groups can be controlled by choosing the appropriate spacers. In conclusion, this methodology is highly amenable for combinatorial strategies and will spur rapid expedited synthesis and purposeful optimization of a broad scope of nanocrystals.

  12. Influence of experimental parameters on iron oxide nanoparticle properties synthesized by thermal decomposition: size and nuclear magnetic resonance studies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Belaïd, Sarah; Stanicki, Dimitri; Vander Elst, Luce; Muller, Robert N.; Laurent, Sophie

    2018-04-01

    A study of the experimental conditions to synthesize monodisperse iron oxide nanocrystals prepared from the thermal decomposition of iron(III) acetylacetonate was carried out in the presence of surfactants and a reducing agent. The influence of temperature, synthesis time and surfactant amounts on nanoparticle properties is reported. This investigation combines relaxometric characterization and size properties. The relaxometric behavior of the nanomaterials depends on the selected experimental parameters. The synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles with a high relaxivity and a high saturation magnetization can be obtained with a short reaction time at high temperature. Moreover, the influence of surfactant concentrations determines the optimal value in order to produce iron oxide nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution. The optimized synthesis is rapid, robust and reproductive, and produces nearly monodisperse magnetic nanocrystals.

  13. Morphology, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Containing Reduced Graphene Oxide and Graphene Nanoplatelets

    PubMed Central

    Korzeniewski, Piotr; Strankowska, Justyna; A. S., Anu; Thomas, Sabu

    2018-01-01

    Polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites were synthesized using commercial thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU, Apilon 52DE55), and two types of graphene derivatives: graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO). Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy, TEM, and SEM microscopy and XRD techniques were used to chemically and structurally characterize GNP and RGO nanofillers. The properties of the new TPU nanocomposite materials were studied using thermal analysis techniques (Dynamical Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG)) to describe the influence of graphene nanofillers on polyurethane matrix. Our investigation describes the comparison of two types of graphene derivatives, commercial one (GNP) and synthesized (RGO) on thermoplastic polyurethanes. These nanofillers provides opportunities to achieve compatibility with the TPU matrix. The property enhancements are attributed commonly to high aspect ratio of graphene nanoplatelets and filler–polymer interactions at the interface. The obtained nanocomposites exhibit higher thermal and mechanical properties due to the good dispersion of both nanofillers into TPU matrix. It was found that the addition of 2 wt % of the nanofiller could lead to a significant reinforcement effect on the TPU matrix. Also, with high content of nanofiller (GNP and RGO), the Payne effect was observed. PMID:29316638

  14. Green synthesis of layered 1T-MoS2/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite with excellent catalytic performances for 4-nitrophenol reduction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meng, Nannan; Cheng, Jian; Zhou, Yifeng; Nie, Wangyan; Chen, Pengpeng

    2017-02-01

    A green and facile process was developed to prepare layered octahedral phase MoS2/reduced graphene oxide (1T-MoS2/RGO) nanocomposite by a Vitamin C-assisted self-assemble method, in which graphene oxide (GO) and LiMoS2 were used as starting materials. Catalytic performances of 1T-MoS2/RGO were evaluated by hydrogenation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). It was demonstrated that the prepared 1T-MoS2/RGO nanocomposite presented excellent catalytic performance and cycling stability for 4-NP reduction, which made it a promising noble-metal-free catalyst. Additionally, broadening work suggested some other RGO-based metal nanocomposite with well-defined porous structure could be also generated via this facile self-assembly method.

  15. Alkali reduction of graphene oxide in molten halide salts: production of corrugated graphene derivatives for high-performance supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Abdelkader, Amr M; Vallés, Cristina; Cooper, Adam J; Kinloch, Ian A; Dryfe, Robert A W

    2014-11-25

    Herein we present a green and facile approach to the successful reduction of graphene oxide (GO) materials using molten halide flux at 370 °C. GO materials have been synthesized using a modified Hummers method and subsequently reduced for periods of up to 8 h. Reduced GO (rGO) flakes have been characterized using X-ray-diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), all indicating a significantly reduced amount of oxygen-containing functionalities on the rGO materials. Furthermore, impressive electrical conductivities and electrochemical capacitances have been measured for the rGO flakes, which, along with the morphology determined from scanning electron microscopy, highlight the role of surface corrugation in these rGO materials.

  16. Thiol-yne click reactions on alkynyl-dopamine-modified reduced graphene oxide.

    PubMed

    Kaminska, Izabela; Qi, Wang; Barras, Alexandre; Sobczak, Janusz; Niedziolka-Jonsson, Joanna; Woisel, Patrice; Lyskawa, Joel; Laure, William; Opallo, Marcin; Li, Musen; Boukherroub, Rabah; Szunerits, Sabine

    2013-06-24

    The large-scale preparation of graphene is of great importance due to its potential applications in various fields. We report herein a simple method for the simultaneous exfoliation and reduction of graphene oxide (GO) to reduced GO (rGO) by using alkynyl-terminated dopamine as the reducing agent. The reaction was performed under mild conditions to yield rGO functionalized with the dopamine derivative. The chemical reactivity of the alkynyl function was demonstrated by post-functionalization with two thiolated precursors, namely 6-(ferrocenyl)hexanethiol and 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecanethiol. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, Raman spectroscopy, conductivity measurements, and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the resulting surfaces. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  17. Surfactant free graphene nanosheets based nanofluids by in-situ reduction of alkaline graphite oxide suspensions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jyothirmayee Aravind, S. S.; Ramaprabhu, S.

    2011-12-01

    Herein we report an entirely different route for the synthesis of graphene nanosheets (GNs) based nanofluids without surfactant or harsh chemical treatments, by reducing the alkaline graphite oxide suspension in ethylene glycol (EG) and de-ionized (DI) water based fluids by a simple thermal treatment. The thermal conductivity measurement after the reduction shows about 6.5 and 13.6% enhancements at 25 °C for the 0.14% volume fraction of GN in EG and DI water, respectively, which is ascribed to the high aspect ratio of the GNs. In addition, a large enhancement in the electrical conductivity of EG and DI water based reduced nanofluids is observed. This interesting result is attributed to the high electrical conductivity of reduced graphene nanosheets suspensions.

  18. Ultrathin reduced graphene oxide films as transparent top-contacts for light switchable solid-state molecular junctions.

    PubMed

    Li, Tao; Jevric, Martyn; Hauptmann, Jonas R; Hviid, Rune; Wei, Zhongming; Wang, Rui; Reeler, Nini E A; Thyrhaug, Erling; Petersen, Søren; Meyer, Jakob A S; Bovet, Nicolas; Vosch, Tom; Nygård, Jesper; Qiu, Xiaohui; Hu, Wenping; Liu, Yunqi; Solomon, Gemma C; Kjaergaard, Henrik G; Bjørnholm, Thomas; Nielsen, Mogens Brøndsted; Laursen, Bo W; Nørgaard, Kasper

    2013-08-14

    A new type of solid-state molecular junction is introduced, which employs reduced graphene oxide as a transparent top contact that permits a self-assembled molecular monolayer to be photoswitched in situ, while simultaneously enabling charge-transport measurements across the molecules. The electrical switching behavior of a less-studied molecular switch, dihydroazulene/vinylheptafulvene, is described, which is used as a test case. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Enhanced thermoelectric properties of graphene oxide patterned by nanoroads.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Si; Guo, Yu; Zhao, Jijun

    2016-04-21

    The thermoelectric properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials are of great interest for both fundamental science and device applications. Graphene oxide (GO), whose physical properties are highly tailorable by chemical and structural modifications, is a potential 2D thermoelectric material. In this report, we pattern nanoroads on GO sheets with epoxide functionalization, and investigate their ballistic thermoelectric transport properties based on density functional theory and the nonequilibrium Green's function method. These graphene oxide nanoroads (GONRDs) are all semiconductors with their band gaps tunable by the road width, edge orientation, and the structure of the GO matrix. These nanostructures show appreciable electrical conductance at certain doping levels and enhanced thermopower of 127-287 μV K(-1), yielding a power factor 4-22 times of the graphene value; meanwhile, the lattice thermal conductance is remarkably reduced to 15-22% of the graphene value; consequently, attaining the figure of merit of 0.05-0.75. Our theoretical results are not only helpful for understanding the thermoelectric properties of graphene and its derivatives, but also would guide the theoretical design and experimental fabrication of graphene-based thermoelectric devices of high performance.

  20. Reduction and shaping of graphene-oxide by laser-printing for controlled bone tissue regeneration and bacterial killing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Palmieri, Valentina; Barba, Marta; Di Pietro, Lorena; Gentilini, Silvia; Chiara Braidotti, Maria; Ciancico, Carlotta; Bugli, Francesca; Ciasca, Gabriele; Larciprete, Rosanna; Lattanzi, Wanda; Sanguinetti, Maurizio; De Spirito, Marco; Conti, Claudio; Papi, Massimiliano

    2018-01-01

    Graphene and graphene oxide (GO) are capable of inducing stem cells differentiation into bone tissue with variable efficacy depending on reductive state of the material. Thus, modulation of osteogenic process and of bone mineral density distribution is theoretically possible by controlling the GO oxidative state. In this study, we laser-printed GO surfaces in order to obtain both a local photo-thermal GO reduction and the formation of nano-wrinkles along precise geometric pattern. Initially, after cells adhered on the surface, stem cells migrated and accumulated on the reduced and wrinkled surface. When the local density of the stem cells on the reduced stripes was high, cells started to proliferate and occupy the oxidized/flat area. The designed surfaces morphology guided stem cell orientation and the reduction accelerated differentiation. Furthermore the reduced sharp nano-wrinkles were able to enhance the GO antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a common cause of prosthetic joints infections. This strategy can offer a revolution in present and future trends of scaffolds design for regenerative medicine.

  1. Neutron Reflectivity Measurement for Polymer Dynamics near Graphene Oxide Monolayers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Koo, Jaseung

    We investigated the diffusion dynamics of polymer chains confined between graphene oxide layers using neutron reflectivity (NR). The bilayers of polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA)/ deuterated PMMA (d-PMMA) films and polystyrene (PS)/d-PS films with various film thickness sandwiched between Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) monolayers of graphene oxide (GO) were prepared. From the NR results, we found that PMMA diffusion dynamics was reduced near the GO surface while the PS diffusion was not significantly changed. This is due to the different strength of GO-polymer interaction. In this talk, these diffusion results will be compared with dewetting dynamics of polymer thin films on the GO monolayers. This has given us the basis for development of graphene-based nanoelectronics with high efficiency, such as heterojunction devices for polymer photovoltaic (OPV) applications.

  2. Optical properties of Si and Ge nanocrystals: Parameter-free calculations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ramos, L. E.; Weissker, H.-Ch.; Furthmüller, J.; Bechstedt, F.

    2005-12-01

    The cover picture of the current issue refers to the Edi-tor's Choice article of Ramos et al. [1]. The paper gives an overview of the electronic and optical properties of silicon and germanium nanocrystals determined by state-of-the-art ab initio methods. Nanocrystals have promising applications in opto-electronic devices, since they can be used to confine electrons and holes and facilitate radiative recombination. Since meas-urements for single nanoparticles are difficult to make, ab initio theoretical investigations become important to understand the mechanisms of luminescence.The cover picture shows nanocrystals of four sizes with tetrahedral coordination whose dangling bonds at the surface are passivated with hydrogen. As often observed in experiments, the nanocrystals are not perfectly spherical, but contain facets. Apart from the size of the nanocrystals, which determines the quantum confinement, the way their dangling bonds are passivated is relevant for their electronic and optical properties. For instance, the passivation with hydroxyls reduces the quantum confine-ment. On the other hand, the oxidation of the silicon nanocrys-tals increases the quantum confinement and reduces the effect of single surface terminations on the gap. Due to the oscillator strengths of the lowest-energy optical transitions, Ge nanocrys-tals are in principle more suitable for opto-electronic applica-tions than Si nanocrystals.The first author, Luis E. Ramos, is a postdoc at the Institute of Solid-State Physics and Optics (IFTO), Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Germany. He investigates electronic and optical properties of semiconductor nanocrystallites and is a member of the European Network of Excellence NANO-QUANTA and of the European Theoretical Spectroscopy Facility (ETSF).

  3. High-performance for hydrogen evolution and pollutant degradation of reduced graphene oxide/two-phase g-C3N4 heterojunction photocatalysts.

    PubMed

    Song, Chengjie; Fan, Mingshan; Shi, Weidong; Wang, Wei

    2018-05-01

    We have successfully synthesized the composites of two-phase g-C 3 N 4 heterojunction photocatalysts by one-step method. And the reduced graphene oxide/two-phase g-C 3 N 4 heterojunction photocatalyst was fabricated via a facile hydrothermal reduction method. The characterization results indicated that the two-phase g-C 3 N 4 was integrated closely, and the common phenomenon of agglomeration for g-C 3 N 4 was significantly reduced. Moreover, the oxidized graphene was reduced successfully in the composites and the graphene was overlaid on the surface or the interlayers of g-C 3 N 4 heterojunction composite uniformly. In addition, we have carried out the photocatalytic activity experiments by H 2 evolution and rhodamine B removal, tetracycline removal under the visible light irradiation. The results revealed that the composite has improved the separation efficiency a lot than the pure photocatalyst. The photocurrent test demonstrated that the recombination of electrons and holes were efficiently inhibited as well as enhanced the photocatalytic activity. The 0.4% rGO loaded samples, 0.4% rGOCN2, own the best performance. Its rate of H 2 evolution was 15 times as high as that of the pure g-C 3 N 4 .

  4. Supercapacitors based on nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide and borocarbonitrides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gopalakrishnan, K.; Moses, Kota; Govindaraj, A.; Rao, C. N. R.

    2013-12-01

    Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (RGO) samples with different nitrogen content, prepared by two different methods, as well as nitrogen-doped few-layer graphene have been investigated as supercapacitor electrodes. Two electrode measurements have been carried out both in aqueous (6M KOH) and in ionic liquid media. Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxides exhibit satisfactory specific capacitance, the values reaching 126F/g at a scan rate of 10mV/s in aqueous medium. Besides providing supercapacitor characteristics, the study has shown the nitrogen content and surface area to be important factors. High surface-area borocarbonitrides, BxCyNz, prepared by the urea route appear to be excellent supercapacitor electrode materials. Thus, BC4.5N exhibits a specific capacitance of 169F/g at a scan rate of 10mV/s in aqueous medium. In an ionic liquid medium, nitrogen-doped RGO and BC4.5N exhibit specific capacitance values of 258F/g and 240F/g at a scan rate of 5mV/s. The ionic liquid enables a larger operating voltage range of 0.0-2.5V compared to 0.0-1V in aqueous medium.

  5. Synthesis of Pt/rGO catalysts with two different reducing agents and their methanol electrooxidation activity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Vu, Thu Ha Thi, E-mail: ptntd2004@yahoo.fr; Tran, Thanh Thuy Thi, E-mail: tranthithanhthuygl@gmail.com; Le, Hong Ngan Thi

    2016-01-15

    Highlights: • Pt/rGO catalysts were successfully synthesized using either NaBH{sub 4} or ethylene glycol. • Synthesis using NaBH{sub 4} could improve electrocatalytic towards methanol oxidation of Pt/rGO catalyst. • 40%Pt/rGO synthesized using NaBH{sub 4} showed the best electrocatalytic performance. - Abstract: The synthesis processes of Platinum (Pt) on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) catalysts from graphene oxide (GO) using two reducing agents including sodium borohydride and ethylene glycol is reported. Structure and morphology of Pt/rGO catalysts are characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Electrocatalytic methanol oxidation properties of these catalysts are evaluated bymore » cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The results show that catalyst synthesized using sodium borohydride has a higher metallic Pt content and an improved catalytic performance in comparison to catalyst synthesized using ethylene glycol. Moreover, effect of Pt loading amount on electrocatalytic methanol oxidation performance of catalysts synthesized using sodium borohydride is systematically investigated. The optimal Pt loading amount on graphene is determined to be 40%.« less

  6. Facile synthesis of hierarchical dendritic PtPd nanogarlands supported on reduced graphene oxide with enhanced electrocatalytic properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Shan-Shan; Zheng, Jie-Ning; Ma, Xiaohong; Hu, Yuan-Yuan; Wang, Ai-Jun; Chen, Jian-Rong; Feng, Jiu-Ju

    2014-05-01

    A simple and facile method is developed for one-pot preparation of hierarchical dendritic PtPd nanogarlands supported on reduced graphene oxide (PtPd/RGO) at room temperature, without using any seed, organic solvent, or complex apparatus. It is found that octylphenoxypolyethoxyethanol (NP-40) as a soft template and its amount are critical to the formation of PtPd garlands. The as-prepared nanocomposites are further applied to methanol and ethanol oxidation with significantly enhanced electrocatalytic activity and better stability in alkaline media.A simple and facile method is developed for one-pot preparation of hierarchical dendritic PtPd nanogarlands supported on reduced graphene oxide (PtPd/RGO) at room temperature, without using any seed, organic solvent, or complex apparatus. It is found that octylphenoxypolyethoxyethanol (NP-40) as a soft template and its amount are critical to the formation of PtPd garlands. The as-prepared nanocomposites are further applied to methanol and ethanol oxidation with significantly enhanced electrocatalytic activity and better stability in alkaline media. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental section, Fig. S1-S12 and Tables S1 and S2. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06808k

  7. Three-dimensionally networked graphene hydroxide with giant pores and its application in supercapacitors

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Dongwook; Seo, Jiwon

    2014-01-01

    The three-dimensionally networked and layered structure of graphene hydroxide (GH) was investigated. After lengthy immersion in a NaOH solution, most of the epoxy groups in the graphene oxide were destroyed, and more hydroxyl groups were generated, transforming the graphene oxide into graphene hydroxide. Additionally, benzoic acid groups were formed, and the ether groups link the neighboring layers, creating a near-3D structure in the GH. To utilize these unique structural features, electrodes with large pores for use in supercapacitors were fabricated using thermal reduction in vacuum. The reduced GH maintained its layered structure and developed a lot of large of pores between/inside the layers. The GH electrodes exhibited high gravimetric as well as high volumetric capacitance. PMID:25492227

  8. Three-dimensionally networked graphene hydroxide with giant pores and its application in supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Dongwook; Seo, Jiwon

    2014-12-01

    The three-dimensionally networked and layered structure of graphene hydroxide (GH) was investigated. After lengthy immersion in a NaOH solution, most of the epoxy groups in the graphene oxide were destroyed, and more hydroxyl groups were generated, transforming the graphene oxide into graphene hydroxide. Additionally, benzoic acid groups were formed, and the ether groups link the neighboring layers, creating a near-3D structure in the GH. To utilize these unique structural features, electrodes with large pores for use in supercapacitors were fabricated using thermal reduction in vacuum. The reduced GH maintained its layered structure and developed a lot of large of pores between/inside the layers. The GH electrodes exhibited high gravimetric as well as high volumetric capacitance.

  9. Three-dimensionally networked graphene hydroxide with giant pores and its application in supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Lee, Dongwook; Seo, Jiwon

    2014-12-10

    The three-dimensionally networked and layered structure of graphene hydroxide (GH) was investigated. After lengthy immersion in a NaOH solution, most of the epoxy groups in the graphene oxide were destroyed, and more hydroxyl groups were generated, transforming the graphene oxide into graphene hydroxide. Additionally, benzoic acid groups were formed, and the ether groups link the neighboring layers, creating a near-3D structure in the GH. To utilize these unique structural features, electrodes with large pores for use in supercapacitors were fabricated using thermal reduction in vacuum. The reduced GH maintained its layered structure and developed a lot of large of pores between/inside the layers. The GH electrodes exhibited high gravimetric as well as high volumetric capacitance.

  10. Excellent photocatalytic performance under visible-light irradiation of ZnS/rGO nanocomposites synthesized by a green method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azimi, Hassan Rayat; Ghoranneviss, Mahmood; Elahi, Seyed Mohammad; Mahmoudian, Mohammad Reza; Jamali-Sheini, Farid; Yousefi, Ramin

    2016-12-01

    ZnS/graphene nanocomposites with different graphene concentrations (5, 10 and 15 wt.%) were synthesized using L-cysteine as surfactant and graphene oxide (GO) powders as graphene source. Excellent performance for nanocomposites to remove methylene blue (MB) dye and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) under visible-light illumination was revealed. TEM images showed that ZnS NPs were decorated on GO sheets and the GO caused a significant decrease in the ZnS diameter size. XRD patterns, XPS and FTIR spectroscopy results indicated that GO sheets changed into reduced graphene oxide (rGO) during the synthesis process. Photocurrent measurements under a visiblelight source indicated a good chemical reaction between ZnS NPs and rGO sheets.

  11. Electrodeposition of Polypyrrole and Reduced Graphene Oxide onto Carbon Bundle Fibre as Electrode for Supercapacitor.

    PubMed

    Abdul Bashid, Hamra Assyaima; Lim, Hong Ngee; Kamaruzaman, Sazlinda; Abdul Rashid, Suraya; Yunus, Robiah; Huang, Nay Ming; Yin, Chun Yang; Rahman, Mohammad Mahbubur; Altarawneh, Mohammednoor; Jiang, Zhong Tao; Alagarsamy, Pandikumar

    2017-12-01

    A nanocomposite comprising of polypyrrole and reduced graphene oxide was electrodeposited onto a carbon bundle fibre (CBF) through a two-step approach (CBF/PPy-rGO-2). The CBF/PPy-rGO-2 had a highly porous structure compared to a nanocomposite of polypyrrole and reduced graphene oxide that was electrodeposited onto a CBF in a one-step approach (CBF/PPy-rGO), as observed through a field emission scanning electron microscope. An X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis revealed the presence of hydrogen bond between the oxide functional groups of rGO and the amine groups of PPy in PPy-rGO-2 nanocomposite. The fabricated CBF/PPy-rGO-2 nanocomposite material was used as an electrode material in a symmetrical solid-state supercapacitor, and the device yielded a specific capacitance, energy density and power density of 96.16 F g - 1 , 13.35 Wh kg - 1 and of 322.85 W kg - 1 , respectively. Moreover, the CBF/PPy-rGO-2 showed the capacitance retention of 71% after 500 consecutive charge/discharge cycles at a current density of 1 A g - 1 . The existence of a high degree of porosity in CBF/PPy-rGO-2 significantly improved the conductivity and facilitated the ionic penetration. The CBF/PPy-rGO-2-based symmetrical solid-state supercapacitor device demonstrated outstanding pliability because the cyclic voltammetric curves remained the same upon bending at various angles. Carbon bundle fibre modified with porous polypyrrole/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite for flexible miniature solid-state supercapacitor.

  12. Ultrafast synthesis of flower-like ordered Pd3Pb nanocrystals with superior electrocatalytic activities towards oxidation of formic acid and ethanol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jana, Rajkumar; Subbarao, Udumula; Peter, Sebastian C.

    2016-01-01

    Ordered intermetallic nanocrystals with high surface area are highly promising as efficient catalysts for fuel cell applications because of their unique electrocatalytic properties. The present work discusses about the controlled synthesis of ordered intermetallic Pd3Pb nanocrystals in different morphologies at relatively low temperature for the first time by polyol and hydrothermal methods both in presence and absence of surfactant. Here for the first time we report surfactant free synthesis of ordered flower-like intermetallic Pd3Pb nanocrystals in 10 s. The structural characteristics of the nanocrystals are confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The as synthesized ordered Pd3Pb nanocrystals exhibit far superior electrocatalytic activity and durability towards formic acid and ethanol oxidation over commercially available Pd black (Pd/C). The morphological variation of nanocrystals plays a crucial role in the electrocatalytic oxidation of formic acid and ethanol. Among the catalysts, the flower-like Pd3Pb shows enhanced activity and stability in electrocatalytic formic acid and ethanol oxidation. The current density and mass activity of flower-like Pd3Pb catalyst are higher by 2.5 and 2.4 times than that of Pd/C for the formic acid oxidation and 1.5 times each for ethanol oxidation.

  13. Comparative effects of graphene and graphene oxide on copper toxicity to Daphnia magna: Role of surface oxygenic functional groups.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yingying; Fan, Wenhong; Xu, Zhizhen; Peng, Weihua; Luo, Shenglian

    2018-05-01

    Although the risk of graphene materials to aquatic organisms has drawn wide attention, the combined effects of graphene materials with other contaminants such as toxic metals, which may bring about more serious effects than graphene materials alone, have seldom been explored. Herein, the effects of graphene (GN) and graphene oxide (GO, an important oxidized derivative of graphene) on copper (Cu) toxicity to Daphnia magna were systematically investigated. The results indicated that GN remarkably increased the Cu accumulation in D. magna and enhanced the oxidative stress injury caused by Cu, whereas did not significantly alter D. magna acute mortality within the tested Cu concentrations (0-200 μg L -1 ). On the contrary, GO significantly decreased the Cu accumulation in D. magna and alleviated the oxidative stress injury caused by Cu. Meanwhile, the presence of GO significantly reduced the mortality of D. magna when Cu concentration exceeded 50 μg L -1 . The different effects of GN and GO on Cu toxicity were possibly dependent on the action of surface oxygenic functional group. Because of the introduction of surface oxygenic functional groups, the adsorption ability to metal ions, stability in water and interaction mode with organisms of GO are quite different from that of GN, causing different effects on Cu toxicity. This study provides important information on the bioavailability and toxicity of heavy metals as affected by graphene materials in natural water. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Silicon oxycarbide glass-graphene composite paper electrode for long-cycle lithium-ion batteries.

    PubMed

    David, Lamuel; Bhandavat, Romil; Barrera, Uriel; Singh, Gurpreet

    2016-03-30

    Silicon and graphene are promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries because of their high theoretical capacity; however, low volumetric energy density, poor efficiency and instability in high loading electrodes limit their practical application. Here we report a large area (approximately 15 cm × 2.5 cm) self-standing anode material consisting of molecular precursor-derived silicon oxycarbide glass particles embedded in a chemically-modified reduced graphene oxide matrix. The porous reduced graphene oxide matrix serves as an effective electron conductor and current collector with a stable mechanical structure, and the amorphous silicon oxycarbide particles cycle lithium-ions with high Coulombic efficiency. The paper electrode (mass loading of 2 mg cm(-2)) delivers a charge capacity of ∼588 mAh g(-1)electrode (∼393 mAh cm(-3)electrode) at 1,020th cycle and shows no evidence of mechanical failure. Elimination of inactive ingredients such as metal current collector and polymeric binder reduces the total electrode weight and may provide the means to produce efficient lightweight batteries.

  15. Partially reduced graphene oxide based FRET on fiber optic interferometer for biochemical detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yao, B. C.; Wu, Y.; Yu, C. B.; He, J. R.; Rao, Y. J.; Gong, Y.; Chen, Y. F.; Li, Y. R.

    2017-04-01

    An all-fiber graphene oxide (GO) based 'FRET on Fiber' concept is proposed and applied in biochemical detections. This method is of both good selectivity and high sensitivity, with detection limits of 1.2 nM, 1.3 μM and 1 pM, for metal ion, dopamine and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), respectively.

  16. Selective Epitaxy of InP on Si and Rectification in Graphene/InP/Si Hybrid Structure.

    PubMed

    Niu, Gang; Capellini, Giovanni; Hatami, Fariba; Di Bartolomeo, Antonio; Niermann, Tore; Hussein, Emad Hameed; Schubert, Markus Andreas; Krause, Hans-Michael; Zaumseil, Peter; Skibitzki, Oliver; Lupina, Grzegorz; Masselink, William Ted; Lehmann, Michael; Xie, Ya-Hong; Schroeder, Thomas

    2016-10-12

    The epitaxial integration of highly heterogeneous material systems with silicon (Si) is a central topic in (opto-)electronics owing to device applications. InP could open new avenues for the realization of novel devices such as high-mobility transistors in next-generation CMOS or efficient lasers in Si photonics circuitry. However, the InP/Si heteroepitaxy is highly challenging due to the lattice (∼8%), thermal expansion mismatch (∼84%), and the different lattice symmetries. Here, we demonstrate the growth of InP nanocrystals showing high structural quality and excellent optoelectronic properties on Si. Our CMOS-compatible innovative approach exploits the selective epitaxy of InP nanocrystals on Si nanometric seeds obtained by the opening of lattice-arranged Si nanotips embedded in a SiO 2 matrix. A graphene/InP/Si-tip heterostructure was realized on obtained materials, revealing rectifying behavior and promising photodetection. This work presents a significant advance toward the monolithic integration of graphene/III-V based hybrid devices onto the mainstream Si technology platform.

  17. Structural evaluation of reduced graphene oxide in graphene oxide during ion irradiation: X-ray absorption spectroscopy and in-situ sheet resistance studies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saravanan, K.; Jayalakshmi, G.; Suresh, K.; Sundaravel, B.; Panigrahi, B. K.; Phase, D. M.

    2018-03-01

    We report the structural evolution of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in graphene oxide (GO) flakes during 1 MeV Si+ ion irradiation. In-situ electrical resistivity measurements facilitate monitoring the sheet resistance with the increase in the fluence. The electrical sheet resistance of the GO flake shows the exponential decay behaviour with the increasing ion fluence. Raman spectra of the GO flake reveal the increase in the ID/IG ratio, indicating restoration of the sp2 network upon irradiation. The C/O ratio estimated from resonant Rutherford backscattering spectrometry analysis directly evidenced the reduction of oxygen moieties upon irradiation. C K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure spectra reveal the restoration of C=C sp2-hybridized carbon atoms and the removal of oxygen-containing functional groups in the GO flake. STM data reveal the higher conductance in the rGO regime in comparison with the regime, where the oxygen functional groups are present. The experimental investigation demonstrates that the ion irradiation can be employed for efficient reduction of GO with tunable electrical and structural properties.

  18. Toxicity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide to zebrafish embryos.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiao Tong; Mu, Xi Yan; Wu, Xiao Li; Meng, Li Xuan; Guan, Wen Bi; Ma, Yong Qiang; Sun, Hua; Wang, Cheng Ju; Li, Xue Feng

    2014-09-01

    This study was aimed to investigate the toxic effects of 3 nanomaterials, i.e. multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), graphene oxide (GO), and reduced graphene oxide (RGO), on zebrafish embryos. The 2-h post-fertilization (hpf) zebrafish embryos were exposed to MWCNTs, GO, and RGO at different concentrations (1, 5, 10, 50, 100 mg/L) for 96 h. Afterwards, the effects of the 3 nanomateria on spontaneous movement, heart rate, hatching rate, length of larvae, mortality, and malformations ls were evaluated. Statistical analysis indicated that RGO significantly inhibited the hatching of zebrafish embryos. Furthermore, RGO and MWCNTs decreased the length of the hatched larvae at 96 hpf. No obvious morphological malformation or mortality was observed in the zebrafish embryos after exposure to the three nanomaterials. MWCNTs, GO, and RGO were all toxic to zebrafish embryos to influence embryos hatching and larvae length. Although no obvious morphological malformation and mortality were observed in exposed zebrafish embryos, further studies on the toxicity of the three nanomaterials are still needed. Copyright © 2014 The Editorial Board of Biomedical and Environmental Sciences. Published by China CDC. All rights reserved.

  19. Analysis of Wear Behavior of Graphene OXIDE — Polyamide Gears for Engineering Applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rajamani, Geetha; Paulraj, Jawahar; Krishnan, Kanny

    Recent advances in polymer nanocomposites open a wide range of applications in various industrial sectors. Due to their high potential properties, these materials are replacing the usage of metals for many heavier components in automobile industries. In this experimental work, the tribological performance of Graphene oxide (GO) — Polyamide is investigated against pristine polyamide by fabricating gears for the usage in engineering applications. A gear test rig was developed in-house for analysis to study the specific wear rate and temperature gradient at different conditions of load and speeds. The wear resistance of the polyamide gears with the addition of 0.03wt.% of graphene oxide is better than the pristine polyamide gears and the specific wear rate is reduced significantly. The reduced specific wear rate of these polymer nanocomposite gears is attributed to the superior properties of graphene oxide such as High specific surface area, good adhesion properties and enhanced glass transition temperatures. The GO nanocomposite gear seems to be a potential alternative against conventional gears for engineering applications. Finally, the wear mechanisms and the potential of GO-based polyamide nanocomposite gears were proposed tentatively in the development of transmission gears for engineering applications.

  20. Facile synthesis of magnetic ZnFe2O4-reduced graphene oxide hybrid and its photo-Fenton-like behavior under visible iradiation.

    PubMed

    Yao, Yunjin; Qin, Jiacheng; Cai, Yunmu; Wei, Fengyu; Lu, Fang; Wang, Shaobin

    2014-06-01

    A magnetic ZnFe2O4-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hybrid was successfully developed as a heterogeneous catalyst for photo-Fenton-like decolorization of various dyes using peroxymonosulfate (PMS) as an oxidant under visible light irradiation. Through an in situ chemical deposition and reduction, ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) with an average size of 23.7 nm were anchored uniformly on rGO sheets to form a ZnFe2O4-rGO hybrid. The catalytic activities in oxidative decomposition of organic dyes were evaluated. The reaction kinetics, effect of ion species and strength, catalytic stability, degradation mechanism, as well as the roles of ZnFe2O4 and graphene were also studied. ZnFe2O4-rGO showed to be a promising photocatalyst with magnetism for the oxidative degradation of aqueous organic pollutants and simple separation. The combination of ZnFe2O4 NPs with graphene sheets leads to a much higher catalytic activity than pure ZnFe2O4. Graphene acted as not only a support and stabilizer for ZnFe2O4 to prevent them from aggregation, largely improving the charge separation in the hybrid material, but also a catalyst for activating PMS to produce sulfate radicals at the same time. The ZnFe2O4-rGO hybrid exhibited stable performance without losing activity after five successive runs.

  1. Improved Electrochemical Detection of Zinc Ions Using Electrode Modified with Electrochemically Reduced Graphene Oxide

    PubMed Central

    Kudr, Jiri; Richtera, Lukas; Nejdl, Lukas; Xhaxhiu, Kledi; Vitek, Petr; Rutkay-Nedecky, Branislav; Hynek, David; Kopel, Pavel; Adam, Vojtech; Kizek, Rene

    2016-01-01

    Increasing urbanization and industrialization lead to the release of metals into the biosphere, which has become a serious issue for public health. In this paper, the direct electrochemical reduction of zinc ions is studied using electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The graphene oxide (GO) was fabricated using modified Hummers method and was electrochemically reduced on the surface of GCE by performing cyclic voltammograms from 0 to −1.5 V. The modification was optimized and properties of electrodes were determined using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The determination of Zn(II) was performed using differential pulse voltammetry technique, platinum wire as a counter electrode, and Ag/AgCl/3 M KCl reference electrode. Compared to the bare GCE the modified GCE/ERGO shows three times better electrocatalytic activity towards zinc ions, with an increase of reduction current along with a negative shift of reduction potential. Using GCE/ERGO detection limit 5 ng·mL−1 was obtained. PMID:28787832

  2. Chemically active reduced graphene oxide with tunable C/O ratios.

    PubMed

    Compton, Owen C; Jain, Bonny; Dikin, Dmitriy A; Abouimrane, Ali; Amine, Khalil; Nguyen, Sonbinh T

    2011-06-28

    Organic dispersions of graphene oxide can be thermally reduced in polar organic solvents under reflux conditions to afford electrically conductive, chemically active reduced graphene oxide (CARGO) with tunable C/O ratios, dependent on the boiling point of the solvent. The reductions are achieved after only 1 h of reflux, and the corresponding C/O ratios do not change upon further thermal treatment. Hydroxyl and carboxyl groups can be removed when the reflux is carried out above 155 °C, while epoxides are removable only when the temperature is higher than 200 °C. The increasing hydrophobic nature of CARGO, as its C/O ratio increases, improves the dispersibility of the nanosheets in a polystyrene matrix, in contrast to the aggregates formed with CARGO having lower C/O ratios. The excellent processability of the obtained CARGO dispersions is demonstrated via free-standing CARGO papers that exhibit tunable electrical conductivity/chemical activity and can be used as lithium-ion battery anodes with enhanced Coulombic efficiency.

  3. Thermoelectric properties and performance of flexible reduced graphene oxide films up to 3,000 K

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Tian; Pickel, Andrea D.; Yao, Yonggang; Chen, Yanan; Zeng, Yuqiang; Lacey, Steven D.; Li, Yiju; Wang, Yilin; Dai, Jiaqi; Wang, Yanbin; Yang, Bao; Fuhrer, Michael S.; Marconnet, Amy; Dames, Chris; Drew, Dennis H.; Hu, Liangbing

    2018-02-01

    The development of ultrahigh-temperature thermoelectric materials could enable thermoelectric topping of combustion power cycles as well as extending the range of direct thermoelectric power generation in concentrated solar power. However, thermoelectric operation temperatures have been restricted to under 1,500 K due to the lack of suitable materials. Here, we demonstrate a thermoelectric conversion material based on high-temperature reduced graphene oxide nanosheets that can perform reliably up to 3,000 K. After a reduction treatment at 3,300 K, the nanosheet film exhibits an increased conductivity to 4,000 S cm-1 at 3,000 K and a high power factor S2σ = 54.5 µW cm-1 K-2. We report measurements characterizing the film's thermoelectric properties up to 3,000 K. The reduced graphene oxide film also exhibits a high broadband radiation absorbance and can act as both a radiative receiver and a thermoelectric generator. The printable, lightweight and flexible film is attractive for system integration and scalable manufacturing.

  4. Green synthesis of the Pd nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide using barberry fruit extract and its application as a recyclable and heterogeneous catalyst for the reduction of nitroarenes.

    PubMed

    Nasrollahzadeh, Mahmoud; Sajadi, S Mohammad; Rostami-Vartooni, Akbar; Alizadeh, Mohammad; Bagherzadeh, Mojtaba

    2016-03-15

    Through this manuscript the green synthesis of palladium nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide (Pd NPs/RGO) under the mild conditions through reduction of the graphene oxide and Pd(2+) ions using barberry fruit extract as reducing and stabilizing agent is reported. The as-prepared Pd NPs/RGO was characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The Pd NPs/RGO could be used as an efficient and heterogeneous catalyst for reduction of nitroarenes using sodium borohydride in an environmental friendly medium. Excellent yields of products were obtained with a wide range of substrates and the catalyst was recycled multiple times without any significant loss of its catalytic activity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Three-dimensional Nitrogen-Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide/Carbon Nanotube Composite Catalysts for Vanadium Flow Batteries

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fu, Shaofang; Zhu, Chengzhou; Song, Junhua

    The development of vanadium redox flow battery is limited by the sluggish kinetics of the reaction, especially the cathodic VO2+/VO2+ redox couples. Therefore, it is vital to develop new electrocatalyst with enhanced activity to improve the battery performance. Herein, we first synthesized the hydrogel precursor by a facile hydrothermal method. After the following carbonization, nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanotube composite was obtained. By virtue of the large surface area and good conductivey, which are ensured by the unique hybrid structure, as well as the proper nitrogen doping, the as-prepared composite presents enhanced catalytic performance toward the VO2+/VO2+ redox reaction. Wemore » also demonstrated the composite with carbon nanotube loading of 2 mg/mL exhibits the highest activity and remarkable stability in aqueous solution due to the strong synergy between reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes, indicating that this composite might show promising applications in vanadium redox flow battery.« less

  6. The impact of hydrogen and oxidizing impurities in chemical vapor deposition of graphene on copper

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choubak, Saman

    Graphene, the single-atom layer of carbon, has attracted scientists and technologists due to its outstanding physical and opto/electronic properties. The use of graphene in practical applications requires a reliable and cost-effective method to produce large area graphene films with low defects and controlled thicknesses. Direct growth of graphene using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on copper, in which carbonaceous gaseous species react with the metal substrate in the presence of hydrogen at high temperatures (850-1100° C), led to high coverage of high quality graphene, opening up a promising future for methods of this type and a large step towards commercial realization of graphene products. The present thesis deals with the synthesis of graphene via low pressure CVD (LP-CVD) on copper catalyst using methane as the carbon precursor. The focus is mainly on the determination of the role of hydrogen and oxidizing impurities during graphene formation with an ultimate purpose: to elucidate a viable and reproducible method for the production of high quality graphene films compatible with industrial manufacturing processes. The role of molecular hydrogen in graphene CVD is explored in the first part of the thesis. Few studies claimed that molecular hydrogen etches graphene films on copper by conducting annealing experiments. On the other hand, we speculated that this graphene etching reaction is due to the presence of trace amount of oxygen in the furnace atmosphere. Thus, we took another approach and designed systematic annealing experiments to investigate the role of hydrogen in the etching reaction of graphene on copper foils. No evidence of graphene etching on copper was observed when purified ultra high purity (UHP) hydrogen was used at 825 °C and 500 mTorr. Nevertheless, graphene films exposed to the unpurified UHP hydrogen were etched due to the presence of oxidizing impurities. Our results show that hydrogen is not responsible for graphene etching reaction and oxygen impurities are the main cause of this etching reaction. We have also determined that graphene etching reaction is catalyzed by the copper surface. Next, we systematically investigated the role that hydrogen plays during the growth and coolingdown stage of LP-CVD of graphene on copper. We show that a flow of CH4/H2 is necessary during cooling for preventing graphene etching likely by the means of a competitive action with carbon growth. After graphene formation, the film can be preserved from detrimental effect of oxygen in the absence of methane by its exposure to purified ultra high purity (UHP) hydrogen flow during cooling. In conditions where the level of oxidizing impurities is low, we have obtained continuous and uniform graphene films using solely purified methane (O2<1ppbV) serving a double role as a copper oxide reducer and carbon supply for the growth in the absence of hydrogen gas. This result shows that the presence of hydrogen is not necessary for graphene growth in a controlled atmosphere. Differences in graphene film morphology in purified conditions, where the level of oxidizing impurities is low (O2<1ppb) compare to standard conditions (O2<1ppm), have also been observed. A larger bilayer and multilayer coverage was noticed when only purified methane was used. These bi- and multi-layer graphene islands appeared to be twisted with respect to the first graphene layer. These overall results suggest a different graphene growth behavior in purified and controlled conditions. Having investigated and understood the role of hydrogen and oxidizing impurities in LP-CVD of graphene on copper, we show a rapid and efficient growth of continuous monolayer graphene on copper within 1 min. This was achieved by minimizing the presence of oxidizing impurities with using gas purifiers installed on the gas lines and maintaining a flow of purified UHP hydrogen during the cooling down stage. With this method, we have reduced the graphene growth process time between 5 to 45 times compared to the current recipes in literature. Note that the installation of gas purifiers is entirely compatible with industrial manufacturing processes and is extremely profitable since it can lower graphene production cost by reducing process time and saving energy. Moreover, the crystalline quality and uniformity of the graphene films, determined by Raman spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy, stayed similar even at this short growth time. Lastly, by gathering all the results during the evolution of this thesis, we notice that graphene multilayer growth is mainly occurring in highly purified conditions and most importantly when a flow of methane gas is present during the cool down stage. Based on these observations, a significant number of bi/multi layer formation can potentially arise when graphene is completed in the cooling stage. These results, although preliminary, point toward the influence of the cooling stage on graphene bi/multi layer formation. The collection of our results presented in this thesis show that oxidizing impurities play a significant role in graphene LP-CVD and explain inconsistencies between growth recipes reported in the literature. They also provide a rational about the need to control the balance between oxygen and hydrogen pressures, for graphene growth pointing toward a general method for improving graphene layer thickness and uniformity on polycrystalline copper substrates.

  7. Fusion of nacre, mussel, and lotus leaf: bio-inspired graphene composite paper with multifunctional integration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhong, Da; Yang, Qinglin; Guo, Lin; Dou, Shixue; Liu, Kesong; Jiang, Lei

    2013-06-01

    Multifunctional integration is an inherent characteristic for biological materials with multiscale structures. Learning from nature is an effective approach for scientists and engineers to construct multifunctional materials. In nature, mollusks (abalone), mussels, and the lotus have evolved different and optimized solutions to survive. Here, bio-inspired multifunctional graphene composite paper was fabricated in situ through the fusion of the different biological solutions from nacre (brick-and-mortar structure), mussel adhesive protein (adhesive property and reducing character), and the lotus leaf (self-cleaning effect). Owing to the special properties (self-polymerization, reduction, and adhesion), dopamine could be simultaneously used as a reducing agent for graphene oxide and as an adhesive, similar to the mortar in nacre, to crosslink the adjacent graphene. The resultant nacre-like graphene paper exhibited stable superhydrophobicity, self-cleaning, anti-corrosion, and remarkable mechanical properties underwater.Multifunctional integration is an inherent characteristic for biological materials with multiscale structures. Learning from nature is an effective approach for scientists and engineers to construct multifunctional materials. In nature, mollusks (abalone), mussels, and the lotus have evolved different and optimized solutions to survive. Here, bio-inspired multifunctional graphene composite paper was fabricated in situ through the fusion of the different biological solutions from nacre (brick-and-mortar structure), mussel adhesive protein (adhesive property and reducing character), and the lotus leaf (self-cleaning effect). Owing to the special properties (self-polymerization, reduction, and adhesion), dopamine could be simultaneously used as a reducing agent for graphene oxide and as an adhesive, similar to the mortar in nacre, to crosslink the adjacent graphene. The resultant nacre-like graphene paper exhibited stable superhydrophobicity, self-cleaning, anti-corrosion, and remarkable mechanical properties underwater. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr33632h

  8. Single-Step, Solvent-Free, Catalyst-Free Preparation of Holey Carbon Allotropes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lin, Yi (Inventor); Funk, Michael R. (Inventor); Kim, Jae-Woo (Inventor); Connell, John W. (Inventor); Campbell, Caroline J. (Inventor)

    2017-01-01

    Methods for forming holey carbon allotropes and graphene nanomeshes are provided by the various embodiments. The various embodiments may be applicable to a variety of carbon allotropes, such as graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, thermal exfoliated graphene, graphene nanoribbons, graphite, exfoliated graphite, expanded graphite, carbon nanotubes (e.g., single-walled carbon nanotubes, double-walled carbon nanotubes, few-walled carbon nanotubes, multi-walled carbon nanotubes, etc.), carbon nanofibers, carbon fibers, carbon black, amorphous carbon, fullerenes, etc. The methods may produce holey carbon allotropes without the use of solvents, catalysts, flammable gas, additional chemical agents, or electrolysis to produce the pores (e.g., holes, etc.) in the carbon allotropes. In an embodiment, a carbon allotrope may be heated at a working window temperature for a working period of time to create holes in the carbon allotrope.

  9. Mechanical Properties of Graphene-Rubber Nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anhar, N. A. M.; Ramli, M. M.; Hambali, N. A. M. A.; Aziz, A. A.; Mat Isa, S. S.; Danial, N. S.; Abdullah, M. M. A. B.

    2017-11-01

    This research focused on development of wearable sensor device by using Prevulcanized Natural Rubber (PV) and Epoxidized Natural Rubber (ENR 50) latex incorporated with graphene oxide (GO), graphene paste, graphene powder and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) powder. The compounding formulation and calculation were based on phr (parts per hundred rubber) and all the samples were then tested for mechanical properties using Instron 5565 machine. It was found that the sonication effects on tensile strength may have better quality of tensile strength compared to non-sonicated GO. For PV incorporate GO, the optimum loading was best determined at loading 1.5 phr with or without sonication and similar result was recorded for PV/G. For ENR 50 incorporate graphene paste and rGO powder nanocomposite shows the best optimum was at 3.0 phr with 24 hours’ sonication.

  10. Stacked multilayers of alternating reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes for planar supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Moon, Geon Dae; Joo, Ji Bong; Yin, Yadong

    2013-12-07

    A simple layer-by-layer approach has been developed for constructing 2D planar supercapacitors of multi-stacked reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes. This sandwiched 2D architecture enables the full utilization of the maximum active surface area of rGO nanosheets by using a CNT layer as a porous physical spacer to enhance the permeation of a gel electrolyte inside the structure and reduce the agglomeration of rGO nanosheets along the vertical direction. As a result, the stacked multilayers of rGO and CNTs are capable of offering higher output voltage and current production.

  11. Covalent modification and exfoliation of graphene oxide using ferrocene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Avinash, M. B.; Subrahmanyam, K. S.; Sundarayya, Y.; Govindaraju, T.

    2010-09-01

    Large scale preparation of single-layer graphene and graphene oxide is of great importance due to their potential applications. We report a simple room temperature method for the exfoliation of graphene oxide using covalent modification of graphene oxide with ferrocene to obtain single-layer graphene oxide sheets. The samples were characterized by FESEM, HRTEM, AFM, EDAX, FT-IR, Raman and Mössbauer spectroscopic studies. HRTEM micrograph of the covalently modified graphene oxide showed increased interlayer spacing of ~2.4 nm due to ferrocene intercalation. The presence of single-layer graphene oxide sheets were confirmed by AFM studies. The covalently modified ferrocene-graphene oxide composite showed interesting magnetic behavior.Large scale preparation of single-layer graphene and graphene oxide is of great importance due to their potential applications. We report a simple room temperature method for the exfoliation of graphene oxide using covalent modification of graphene oxide with ferrocene to obtain single-layer graphene oxide sheets. The samples were characterized by FESEM, HRTEM, AFM, EDAX, FT-IR, Raman and Mössbauer spectroscopic studies. HRTEM micrograph of the covalently modified graphene oxide showed increased interlayer spacing of ~2.4 nm due to ferrocene intercalation. The presence of single-layer graphene oxide sheets were confirmed by AFM studies. The covalently modified ferrocene-graphene oxide composite showed interesting magnetic behavior. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Magnetic data; AFM images; TEM micrographs; and Mössbauer spectroscopic data. See DOI: 10.1039/c0nr00024h

  12. Low temperature plasma synthesis of mesoporous Fe3O4 nanorods grafted on reduced graphene oxide for high performance lithium storage.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Quan; Zhao, Zongbin; Wang, Zhiyu; Dong, Yanfeng; Wang, Xuzhen; Gogotsi, Yury; Qiu, Jieshan

    2014-02-21

    Transition metal oxide coupling with carbon is an effective method for improving electrical conductivity of battery electrodes and avoiding the degradation of their lithium storage capability due to large volume expansion/contraction and severe particle aggregation during the lithium insertion and desertion process. In our present work, we develop an effective approach to fabricate the nanocomposites of porous rod-shaped Fe3O4 anchored on reduced graphene oxide (Fe3O4/rGO) by controlling the in situ nucleation and growth of β-FeOOH onto the graphene oxide (β-FeOOH/GO) and followed by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) hydrogen plasma treatment. Such well-designed hierarchical nanostructures are beneficial for maximum utilization of electrochemically active matter in lithium ion batteries and display superior Li uptake with high reversible capacity, good rate capability, and excellent stability, maintaining 890 mA h g(-1) capacity over 100 cycles at a current density of 500 mA g(-1).

  13. Electrochemical Determination of Baicalin in Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on the Enhancement Effect of MoO3-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, Weibing; Zhang, Wen; Wang, Meng; Feng, Fu

    2018-02-01

    The nanocomposites of MoO3-reduced graphene oxide (MoO3-RGO) were synthesized by hydrothermal reduction using MoCl5 and graphene oxide as precursors. The resulting composites were characterized with scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Raman spectra, and were further used to modify the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). After optimizing the parameters, the electrochemical behavior of baicalin on different types of electrodes was investigated. The MoO3-RGO composite-modified GCE exhibited remarkably enhanced electrochemical signals of baicalin. After 90 s, under open circuit potential, oxidation and reduction peaks appeared at 0.207 V and 0.103 V, respectively. A sensitive and simple electrochemical method was proposed for the determination of baicalin in which the calibration curve ranges from 1.0 × 10-9 M to 4.3 × 10-5 M, and the detection limit is 3.81 × 10-10 M.

  14. Aligned poly(ε-caprolactone)/graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite nanofibers: Morphological, mechanical and structural properties.

    PubMed

    Ramazani, Soghra; Karimi, Mohammad

    2015-11-01

    A number of studies have demonstrated that the mechanical properties of electrospun polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds are enhanced with the incorporation of graphene and its derivatives, thus developing their applications in hard tissue engineering. However, our understanding of the relationship between the microstructure and properties of these fibrous scaffolds and how they are influenced by graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) loading is much more limited. Thus, in this paper, poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)/GO and RGO nanocomposite nanofibers containing 0, 0.1, 0.5 and 1wt.% GO and RGO were prepared using an electrospinning technique. With the addition of 0.1wt.% of GO and RGO nanosheets in PCL, the tensile strength of PCL scaffolds increased over ~160 and 304% respectively and elastic modulus increased over 103 and 163% due to the good dispersion of the nanosheets and their interaction with the molecular chains of PCL. These were supported by the parallel increase in relaxation time and molecular orientation of PCL chains at the presence of nanosheets with a loading of 0.1wt.%. The enhancement effect of the nanosheets was weakened with an increase in GO and RGO loading up to 1wt.% in which it is connected to a partial exfoliation of the nanosheets. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Development and Biocompatibility Evaluation of Photocatalytic TiO2/Reduced Graphene Oxide-Based Nanoparticles Designed for Self-Cleaning Purposes

    PubMed Central

    Nica, Ionela Cristina; Stan, Miruna S.; Popa, Marcela; Chifiriuc, Mariana Carmen; Pircalabioru, Gratiela G.; Lazar, Veronica; Dumitrescu, Iuliana; Diamandescu, Lucian; Feder, Marcel; Baibarac, Mihaela; Cernea, Marin; Popescu, Traian; Dinischiotu, Anca

    2017-01-01

    Graphene is widely used in nanotechnologies to amplify the photocatalytic activity of TiO2, but the development of TiO2/graphene composites imposes the assessment of their risk to human and environmental health. Therefore, reduced graphene oxide was decorated with two types of TiO2 particles co-doped with 1% iron and nitrogen, one of them being obtained by a simultaneous precipitation of Ti3+ and Fe3+ ions to achieve their uniform distribution, and the other one after a sequential precipitation of these two cations for a higher concentration of iron on the surface. Physico-chemical characterization, photocatalytic efficiency evaluation, antimicrobial analysis and biocompatibility assessment were performed for these TiO2-based composites. The best photocatalytic efficiency was found for the sample with iron atoms localized at the sample surface. A very good anti-inhibitory activity was obtained for both samples against biofilms of Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. Exposure of human skin and lung fibroblasts to photocatalysts did not significantly affect cell viability, but analysis of oxidative stress showed increased levels of carbonyl groups and advanced oxidation protein products for both cell lines after 48 h of incubation. Our findings are of major importance by providing useful knowledge for future photocatalytic self-cleaning and biomedical applications of graphene-based materials. PMID:28925946

  16. Determination of nicotine in tobacco products based on mussel-inspired reduced graphene oxide-supported gold nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Jing, Yanqiu; Yuan, Xiuxiu; Yuan, Qiu; He, Kuanxin; Liu, Yingjie; Lu, Ping; Li, Huaiqi; Li, Bin; Zhan, Hui; Li, Guangliang

    2016-01-01

    Polydopamine functionalized reduced graphene oxide-gold nanoparticle (PDA-RGO/Au) nanocomposites were successfully prepared by a simple and mild procedure. The PDA-RGO/Au nanocomposite is successfully formed in an aqueous buffer solution (pH 8.5) without using any reducing agent. FTIR confirmed the successful coating of PDA and informed the reduction of the surface functional groups of GO. The formation of reduced GO and Au NPs was further evidenced by UV-Vis and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. This method is environmentally friendly and highly beneficial for the mass production of graphene-noble metal based nanocomposite. The as prepared PDA-RGO/Au nanocomposite could greatly enhance the electrochemical oxidation of nicotine. We fabricated an electrochemical nicotine sensor based on the prepared PDA-RGO/Au nanocomposite. The proposed nicotine sensor showed a wide detection range from 0.05 to 500 μM with a low detection limit of 0.015 μM. Moreover, the proposed nicotine sensor was also successfully applied for determination nicotine content in tobacco products. PMID:27374974

  17. Comparative studies on single-layer reduced graphene oxide films obtained by electrochemical reduction and hydrazine vapor reduction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Zhijuan; Wu, Shixin; Zhang, Juan; Chen, Peng; Yang, Guocheng; Zhou, Xiaozhu; Zhang, Qichun; Yan, Qingyu; Zhang, Hua

    2012-02-01

    The comparison between two kinds of single-layer reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets, obtained by reduction of graphene oxide (GO) with the electrochemical method and hydrazine vapor reduction, referred to as E-rGO and C-rGO, respectively, is systematically studied. Although there is no morphology difference between the E-rGO and C-rGO films adsorbed on solid substrates observed by AFM, the reduction process to obtain the E-rGO and C-rGO films is quite different. In the hydrazine vapor reduction, the nitrogen element is incorporated into the obtained C-rGO film, while no additional element is introduced to the E-rGO film during the electrochemical reduction. Moreover, Raman spectra show that the electrochemical method is more effective than the hydrazine vapor reduction method to reduce the GO films. In addition, E-rGO shows better electrocatalysis towards dopamine than does C-rGO. This study is helpful for researchers to understand these two different reduction methods and choose a suitable one to reduce GO based on their experimental requirements.

  18. Determination of nicotine in tobacco products based on mussel-inspired reduced graphene oxide-supported gold nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jing, Yanqiu; Yuan, Xiuxiu; Yuan, Qiu; He, Kuanxin; Liu, Yingjie; Lu, Ping; Li, Huaiqi; Li, Bin; Zhan, Hui; Li, Guangliang

    2016-07-01

    Polydopamine functionalized reduced graphene oxide-gold nanoparticle (PDA-RGO/Au) nanocomposites were successfully prepared by a simple and mild procedure. The PDA-RGO/Au nanocomposite is successfully formed in an aqueous buffer solution (pH 8.5) without using any reducing agent. FTIR confirmed the successful coating of PDA and informed the reduction of the surface functional groups of GO. The formation of reduced GO and Au NPs was further evidenced by UV-Vis and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. This method is environmentally friendly and highly beneficial for the mass production of graphene-noble metal based nanocomposite. The as prepared PDA-RGO/Au nanocomposite could greatly enhance the electrochemical oxidation of nicotine. We fabricated an electrochemical nicotine sensor based on the prepared PDA-RGO/Au nanocomposite. The proposed nicotine sensor showed a wide detection range from 0.05 to 500 μM with a low detection limit of 0.015 μM. Moreover, the proposed nicotine sensor was also successfully applied for determination nicotine content in tobacco products.

  19. Synthesis of Graphite Oxide with Different Surface Oxygen Contents Assisted Microwave Radiation

    PubMed Central

    Ibarra-Hernández, Adriana

    2018-01-01

    Graphite oxide is synthesized via oxidation reaction using oxidant compounds that have lattice defects by the incorporation of unlike functional groups. Herein, we report the synthesis of the graphite oxide with diverse surface oxygen content through three (B, C, D) different modified versions of the Hummers method assisted microwave radiation compared with the conventional graphite oxide sample obtained by Hummers method (A). These methods allow not only the production of graphite oxide but also reduced graphene oxide, without undergoing chemical, thermal, or mechanical reduction steps. The values obtained of C/O ratio were ~2, 3.4, and ~8.5 for methodologies C, B, and D, respectively, indicating the presence of graphite oxide and reduced graphene oxide, according to X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy of method D shows the fewest structural defects compared to the other methodologies. The results obtained suggest that the permanganate ion produces reducing species during graphite oxidation. The generation of these species is attributed to a reversible reaction between the permanganate ion with π electrons, ions, and radicals produced after treatment with microwave radiation. PMID:29438280

  20. High Detectivity Graphene-Silicon Heterojunction Photodetector.

    PubMed

    Li, Xinming; Zhu, Miao; Du, Mingde; Lv, Zheng; Zhang, Li; Li, Yuanchang; Yang, Yao; Yang, Tingting; Li, Xiao; Wang, Kunlin; Zhu, Hongwei; Fang, Ying

    2016-02-03

    A graphene/n-type silicon (n-Si) heterojunction has been demonstrated to exhibit strong rectifying behavior and high photoresponsivity, which can be utilized for the development of high-performance photodetectors. However, graphene/n-Si heterojunction photodetectors reported previously suffer from relatively low specific detectivity due to large dark current. Here, by introducing a thin interfacial oxide layer, the dark current of graphene/n-Si heterojunction has been reduced by two orders of magnitude at zero bias. At room temperature, the graphene/n-Si photodetector with interfacial oxide exhibits a specific detectivity up to 5.77 × 10(13) cm Hz(1/2) W(-1) at the peak wavelength of 890 nm in vacuum, which is highest reported detectivity at room temperature for planar graphene/Si heterojunction photodetectors. In addition, the improved graphene/n-Si heterojunction photodetectors possess high responsivity of 0.73 A W(-1) and high photo-to-dark current ratio of ≈10(7) . The current noise spectral density of the graphene/n-Si photodetector has been characterized under ambient and vacuum conditions, which shows that the dark current can be further suppressed in vacuum. These results demonstrate that graphene/Si heterojunction with interfacial oxide is promising for the development of high detectivity photodetectors. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. A facile and green preparation of reduced graphene oxide using Eucalyptus leaf extract

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Chengyang; Zhuang, Zechao; Jin, Xiaoying; Chen, Zuliang

    2017-11-01

    In this paper, a green and facile synthesis of reduced graphene oxide (GO) by Eucalyptus leaf extract (EL-RGO) was investigated, which was characterized with ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Thermal gravimetric analysis (TG). Eucalyptus leaf extract also play both reducing and capping stabilizing agents prepared EL-RGO as shown a good stability and electrochemical properties. This approach could provide an alternative method to prepare EL-RGO in large-scale production. Moreover, the good electrochemical property and biocompatibility can be used in various applications. In addition, the merit of this study is that both the oxidized products and the reducing agents are environmental friendly by green reduction.

  2. Thermal bubble inkjet printing of water-based graphene oxide and graphene inks on heated substrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Simin; Shen, Ruoxi; Qian, Bo; Li, Lingying; Wang, Wenhao; Lin, Guanghui; Zhang, Xiaofei; Li, Peng; Xie, Yonglin

    2018-04-01

    Stable-jetting water-based graphene oxide (GO) and graphene (GR) inks without any surfactant or stabilizer are prepared from an unstable-jetting water-based starting solvent, with many thermal bubble inkjet satellite drops, by simply increasing the material concentration. The concentration-dependent thermal bubble inkjet droplet generation process is studied in detail. To overcome the low concentration properties of water-based thermal bubble inkjet inks, the substrate temperature is tuned below 60 °C to achieve high-quality print lines. Due to the difference in hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of the 2D materials, the printed GO lines show a different forming mechanism from that of the GR lines. The printed GO lines are reduced by thermal annealing and by ascorbic acid, respectively. The reduced GO lines exhibit electrical conductivity of the same order of magnitude as that of the GR lines.

  3. Ultraflexible and robust graphene supercapacitors printed on textiles for wearable electronics applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdelkader, Amr M.; Karim, Nazmul; Vallés, Cristina; Afroj, Shaila; Novoselov, Kostya S.; Yeates, Stephen G.

    2017-09-01

    Printed graphene supercapacitors have the potential to empower tomorrow’s wearable electronics. We report a solid-state flexible supercapacitor device printed on textiles using graphene oxide ink and a screen-printing technique. After printing, graphene oxide was reduced in situ via a rapid electrochemical method avoiding the use of any reducing reagents that may damage the textile substrates. The printed electrodes exhibited excellent mechanical stability due to the strong interaction between the ink and textile substrate. The unique hierarchical porous structure of the electrodes facilitated ionic diffusion and maximised the surface area available for the electrolyte/active material interface. The obtained device showed outstanding cyclic stability over 10 000 cycles and maintained excellent mechanical flexibility, which is necessary for wearable applications. The simple printing technique is readily scalable and avoids the problems associated with fabricating supercapacitor devices made of conductive yarn, as previously reported in the literature.

  4. Investigation of surface potentials in reduced graphene oxide flake by Kelvin probe force microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Negishi, Ryota; Takashima, Kai; Kobayashi, Yoshihiro

    2018-06-01

    The surface potential (SP) of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) flakes prepared by thermal treatments of GO under several conditions was analyzed by Kelvin probe force microscopy. The low-crystalline rGO flakes in which a significant amount of oxygen functional groups and structural defects remain have a much lower SP than mechanically exfoliated graphene free from oxygen and defects. On the other hand, the highly crystalline rGO flake after a thermal treatment for the efficient removal of oxygen functional groups and healing of structural defects except for domain boundary shows SP equivalent to that of the mechanically exfoliated graphene. These results indicate that the work function of rGO is sensitively modulated by oxygen functional groups and structural defects remaining after the thermal reduction process, but is not affected significantly by the domain boundary remaining after the healing of structural defects through the thermal treatment at high temperature.

  5. Direct growth and patterning of multilayer graphene onto a targeted substrate without an external carbon source.

    PubMed

    Kang, Dongseok; Kim, Won-Jun; Lim, Jung Ah; Song, Yong-Won

    2012-07-25

    Using only a simple tube furnace, we demonstrate the synthesis of patterned graphene directly on a designed substrate without the need for an external carbon source. Carbon atoms are absorbed onto Ni evaporator sources as impurities, and incorporated into catalyst layers during the deposition. Heat treatment conditions were optimized so that the atoms diffused out along the grain boundaries to form nanocrystals at the catalyst-substrate interfaces. Graphene patterns were obtained under patterned catalysts, which restricted graphene formation to within patterned areas. The resultant multilayer graphene was characterized by Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy to verify the high crystallinity and two-dimensional nanomorphology. Finally, a metal-semiconductor diode with a catalyst-graphene contact structure were fabricated and characterized to assess the semiconducting properties of the graphene sheets with respect to the display of asymmetric current-voltage behavior.

  6. A novel method for imitating nacre by utilizing magnetic graphene oxide and its magnetic field alignment in polymer nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Zhenxiang; Jiao, Weicheng; Yan, Meiling; Li, Jun; Ding, Guomin; Wang, Rongguo

    2018-02-01

    The way gas molecules penetrate the resin matrix composites are generally divided into diffusion penetration and destruction penetration. Through theoretical analysis, the larger the nanoscale layers, the smaller the penetration effect in the directional nanosheets reinforced resin matrix composites. To control destruction penetration, the cracks should be reduced by toughening resin matrix composites. In order to solve these two kinds of leakage, the magnetic graphene oxide is connected to mimic nacre while L- glutamic acid is used as binder and the directional solidification is also utilized. Compared with pure resin, only 0.13 wt% monolithic magnetic graphene oxide and its interbed reinforced composites can reduce the leakage of He by 36.4% and 52.0% respectively, and the toughness of composites is validated to increase 4.0% and 20.3% respectively. This toughening mechanism is similar to that of nacre.

  7. Solar Light Responsive Photocatalytic Activity of Reduced Graphene Oxide-Zinc Selenide Nanocomposite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chakraborty, Koushik; Ibrahim, Sk; Das, Poulomi; Ghosh, Surajit; Pal, Tanusri

    2017-10-01

    Solution processable reduced graphene oxide-zinc selenide (RGO-ZnSe) nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized by an easy one-pot single-step solvothermal reaction. The RGO-ZnSe composite was characterized structurally and morphologically by the study of XRD analysis, SEM and TEM imaging. Reduction in graphene oxide was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy analysis. Photocatalytic efficiency of RGO-ZnSe composite was investigated toward the degradation of Rhodamine B under solar light irradiation. Our study indicates that the RGO-ZnSe composite is catalytically more active compared to the controlled-ZnSe under the solar light illumination. Here, RGO plays an important role for photoinduced charge separation and subsequently hinders the electron-hole recombination probability that consequently enhances photocatalytic degradation efficiency. We expect that this type of RGO-based optoelectronics materials opens up a new avenue in the field of photocatalytic degradation of different organic water pollutants.

  8. Highly oxidized graphene oxide and methods for production thereof

    DOEpatents

    Tour, James M.; Kosynkin, Dmitry V.

    2016-08-30

    A highly oxidized form of graphene oxide and methods for production thereof are described in various embodiments of the present disclosure. In general, the methods include mixing a graphite source with a solution containing at least one oxidant and at least one protecting agent and then oxidizing the graphite source with the at least one oxidant in the presence of the at least one protecting agent to form the graphene oxide. Graphene oxide synthesized by the presently described methods is of a high structural quality that is more oxidized and maintains a higher proportion of aromatic rings and aromatic domains than does graphene oxide prepared in the absence of at least one protecting agent. Methods for reduction of graphene oxide into chemically converted graphene are also disclosed herein. The chemically converted graphene of the present disclosure is significantly more electrically conductive than is chemically converted graphene prepared from other sources of graphene oxide.

  9. Temperature dependent selective detection of hydrogen and acetone using Pd doped WO3/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kaur, Jasmeet; Anand, Kanica; Kohli, Nipin; Kaur, Amanpreet; Singh, Ravi Chand

    2018-06-01

    Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and Pd doped WO3 nanocomposites were fabricated by employing electrostatic interactions between poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) modified Pd doped WO3 nanostructures and graphite oxide (GO) and studied for their gas sensing application. XRD, Raman, FTIR, FESEM-EDX, TEM, TGA, XPS and Photoluminescence techniques were used for characterization of as-synthesized samples. Gas sensing studies revealed that the sensor with optimized doping of 1.5 mol% Pd and 1 wt% GO shows temperature dependent selectivity towards hydrogen and acetone. The role of WO3, Pd and RGO has been discussed in detail for enhanced sensing performance.

  10. Adsorption and desorption of phthalic acid esters on graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide as affected by humic acid.

    PubMed

    Lu, Lun; Wang, Jun; Chen, Baoliang

    2018-01-01

    The implications of humic acid (HA) regarding surface properties of graphene materials and their interactions with phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are not vivid. We report the role of HA on graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) for sorption-desorption behavior of PAEs. Besides higher surface area and pore volume, the hydrophobic π-conjugated carbon atoms on RGO ensured prominent adsorption capacity towards PAEs in comparison to hydrophilic GO, highlighting the hydrophobic effect. After adjusting for the hydrophobic effect by calculating the hexadecane-water partition coefficient (K HW ) normalized adsorption coefficient (K d /K HW ), the dimethyl phthalate (DMP) molecule portrayed a higher adsorption affinity towards RGO by π-π electron donor-acceptor (EDA) interaction for active sites on graphene interface via sieving effect. In contrast to RGO, the weak π-π EDA interactions and H-bonding was observed between the carbonyl groups of PAEs and oxygen containing functional groups on GO. There was no obvious change in morphologies of GO and RGO before and desorption as revealed by SEM and TEM images, as desorption hysteresis did not occur in all conditions. The presence of HA also resulted in shielding effect thereby decreasing the adsorption rate and capacity of diethyl phthalate (DEP) on GO and RGO, while it had little effect on DMP, probably due to the adsorbed HA as new active sites. The desorption of DMP and DEP on RGO in presence of HA was quick and enhanced. These results should be important for evaluating the fate and health risk of graphene materials and PAEs in the environment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Reduced graphene oxide decorated with gold nanoparticle as signal amplification element on ultra-sensitive electrochemiluminescence determination of caspase-3 activity and apoptosis using peptide based biosensor

    PubMed Central

    Khalilzadeh, Balal; Shadjou, Nasrin; Afsharan, Hadi; Eskandani, Morteza; Nozad Charoudeh, Hojjatollah; Rashidi, Mohammad-Reza

    2016-01-01

    Introduction:Growing demands for ultrasensitive biosensing have led to the development of numerous signal amplification strategies. In this report, a novel electrochemiluminescence (ECL) method was developed for the detection and determination of caspase-3 activity based on reduced graphene oxide sheets decorated by gold nanoparticles as signal amplification element and horseradish peroxidase enzyme (HRP) as ECL intensity enhancing agent. Methods: The ECL intensity of the luminol was improved by using the streptavidin coated magnetic beads and HRP in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The cleavage behavior of caspase-3 was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques using biotinylated peptide (DEVD containing peptide) which was coated on reduced graphene oxide decorated with gold nanoparticle. The surface modification of graphene oxide was successfully confirmed by FTIR, UV-vis and x-ray spectroscopy. Results: ECL based biosensor showed that the linear dynamic range (LDR) and the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) were 0.5-100 and 0.5 femtomolar (fM), respectively. Finally, the performance of the engineered peptide based biosensor was validated in the A549 cell line as real samples. Conclusion: The prepared peptide based biosensor could be considered as an excellent candidate for early detection of apoptosis, cell turnover, and cancer related diseases. PMID:27853677

  12. Nitrogen-doped partially reduced graphene oxide rewritable nonvolatile memory.

    PubMed

    Seo, Sohyeon; Yoon, Yeoheung; Lee, Junghyun; Park, Younghun; Lee, Hyoyoung

    2013-04-23

    As memory materials, two-dimensional (2D) carbon materials such as graphene oxide (GO)-based materials have attracted attention due to a variety of advantageous attributes, including their solution-processability and their potential for highly scalable device fabrication for transistor-based memory and cross-bar memory arrays. In spite of this, the use of GO-based materials has been limited, primarily due to uncontrollable oxygen functional groups. To induce the stable memory effect by ionic charges of a negatively charged carboxylic acid group of partially reduced graphene oxide (PrGO), a positively charged pyridinium N that served as a counterion to the negatively charged carboxylic acid was carefully introduced on the PrGO framework. Partially reduced N-doped graphene oxide (PrGODMF) in dimethylformamide (DMF) behaved as a semiconducting nonvolatile memory material. Its optical energy band gap was 1.7-2.1 eV and contained a sp2 C═C framework with 45-50% oxygen-functionalized carbon density and 3% doped nitrogen atoms. In particular, rewritable nonvolatile memory characteristics were dependent on the proportion of pyridinum N, and as the proportion of pyridinium N atom decreased, the PrGODMF film lost memory behavior. Polarization of charged PrGODMF containing pyridinium N and carboxylic acid under an electric field produced N-doped PrGODMF memory effects that followed voltage-driven rewrite-read-erase-read processes.

  13. Nanomagnetism study of highly-ordered iron oxide nanocrystal assemblies fabricated by the Langmuir-Blodgett technique.

    PubMed

    Zhang, HaiTao; Bao, NiNa; Yuan, Du; Ding, Jun

    2013-09-21

    Iron oxide nanocrystals are ideal building blocks for the construction of flexible nanodevices whose performance can be modulated by controlling the morphology of isolated particles and their organizational form. This work demonstrates the fabrication of high quality Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) nanocrystal assemblies with limited overlapping and higher coverage by systemically and combinatorially optimizing the parameters of compression pressure and quantity of spread nanocrystals. Monodispersed iron oxide nanocrystals with a diameter of 11.8 nm were synthesized by thermal decomposition of Fe(CO)5 in trioctylamine with the presence of oleic acid. Multilayer nanocrystal assemblies were obtained through a layer-by-layer (LBL) process by repeating the transfer procedure after their hydrophilicity had been improved via treatment in a UV-ozone oven. The quality of nanocrystal assemblies was investigated by UV-vis spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy. The nanomagnetism for the nanostructures of different combination manners was studied systemically by a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). A lower superparamagnetic blocking temperature was found in the monolayer Fe3O4 nanocrystal assembly. The superparamagnetic blocking temperature in magnetic nanocrystal assemblies could be tuned through modifying the interparticle interactions among the interlayer and intralayers by controlling the layer number of the assemblies.

  14. Large scale production of highly-qualified graphene by ultrasonic exfoliation of expanded graphite under the promotion of (NH4)2CO3 decomposition.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yunwei; Tong, Xili; Guo, Xiaoning; Wang, Yingyong; Jin, Guoqiang; Guo, Xiangyun

    2013-11-29

    Highly-qualified graphene was prepared by the ultrasonic exfoliation of commercial expanded graphite (EG) under the promotion of (NH4)2CO3 decomposition. The yield of graphene from the first exfoliation is 7 wt%, and it can be increased to more than 65 wt% by repeated exfoliations. Atomic force microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman analysis show that the as-prepared graphene only has a few defects or oxides, and more than 95% of the graphene flakes have a thickness of ~1 nm. The electrochemical performance of the as-prepared graphene is comparable to reduced graphene oxide in the determination of dopamine (DA) from the mixed solution of ascorbic acid, uric acid and DA. These results show that the decomposition of (NH4)2CO3 molecules in the EG layers under ultrasonication promotes the exfoliation of graphite and provides a low-priced route for large scale production of highly-quality graphene.

  15. Large scale production of highly-qualified graphene by ultrasonic exfoliation of expanded graphite under the promotion of (NH4)2CO3 decomposition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Yunwei; Tong, Xili; Guo, Xiaoning; Wang, Yingyong; Jin, Guoqiang; Guo, Xiangyun

    2013-11-01

    Highly-qualified graphene was prepared by the ultrasonic exfoliation of commercial expanded graphite (EG) under the promotion of (NH4)2CO3 decomposition. The yield of graphene from the first exfoliation is 7 wt%, and it can be increased to more than 65 wt% by repeated exfoliations. Atomic force microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman analysis show that the as-prepared graphene only has a few defects or oxides, and more than 95% of the graphene flakes have a thickness of ˜1 nm. The electrochemical performance of the as-prepared graphene is comparable to reduced graphene oxide in the determination of dopamine (DA) from the mixed solution of ascorbic acid, uric acid and DA. These results show that the decomposition of (NH4)2CO3 molecules in the EG layers under ultrasonication promotes the exfoliation of graphite and provides a low-priced route for large scale production of highly-quality graphene.

  16. Atomic layer deposited oxide films as protective interface layers for integrated graphene transfer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cabrero-Vilatela, A.; Alexander-Webber, J. A.; Sagade, A. A.; Aria, A. I.; Braeuninger-Weimer, P.; Martin, M.-B.; Weatherup, R. S.; Hofmann, S.

    2017-12-01

    The transfer of chemical vapour deposited graphene from its parent growth catalyst has become a bottleneck for many of its emerging applications. The sacrificial polymer layers that are typically deposited onto graphene for mechanical support during transfer are challenging to remove completely and hence leave graphene and subsequent device interfaces contaminated. Here, we report on the use of atomic layer deposited (ALD) oxide films as protective interface and support layers during graphene transfer. The method avoids any direct contact of the graphene with polymers and through the use of thicker ALD layers (≥100 nm), polymers can be eliminated from the transfer-process altogether. The ALD film can be kept as a functional device layer, facilitating integrated device manufacturing. We demonstrate back-gated field effect devices based on single-layer graphene transferred with a protective Al2O3 film onto SiO2 that show significantly reduced charge trap and residual carrier densities. We critically discuss the advantages and challenges of processing graphene/ALD bilayer structures.

  17. Enhanced reactive adsorption of hydrogen sulfide on the composites of graphene/graphite oxide with copper (hydr)oxychlorides.

    PubMed

    Mabayoje, Oluwaniyi; Seredych, Mykola; Bandosz, Teresa J

    2012-06-27

    Composites of copper (hydr)oxychlorides with graphite oxide or graphene were synthesized and used as adsorbents of hydrogen sulfide at dynamic conditions at ambient temperatures. The materials were extensively characterized before and after adsorption in order to link their performance to the surface features. X-ray diffraction, FTIR, thermal analysis, TEM, SEM/EDX, and adsorption of nitrogen were used. It was found that the composite with graphene has the most favorable surface features enhancing reactive adsorption of hydrogen sulfide. The presence of moisture in the H2S stream has a positive effect on the removal process owing to the dissociation process. H2S is retained on the surface via a direct replacement of OH groups and via acid-base reactions with the copper (hydr)oxide. Highly dispersed reduced copper species on the surface of the composite with graphene enhance activation of oxygen and cause formation of sulfites and sulfates. Higher conductivity of the graphene phase than that of graphite oxide helps in electron transfer in redox reactions.

  18. Scalable Production of Graphene-Based Wearable E-Textiles.

    PubMed

    Karim, Nazmul; Afroj, Shaila; Tan, Sirui; He, Pei; Fernando, Anura; Carr, Chris; Novoselov, Kostya S

    2017-12-26

    Graphene-based wearable e-textiles are considered to be promising due to their advantages over traditional metal-based technology. However, the manufacturing process is complex and currently not suitable for industrial scale application. Here we report a simple, scalable, and cost-effective method of producing graphene-based wearable e-textiles through the chemical reduction of graphene oxide (GO) to make stable reduced graphene oxide (rGO) dispersion which can then be applied to the textile fabric using a simple pad-dry technique. This application method allows the potential manufacture of conductive graphene e-textiles at commercial production rates of ∼150 m/min. The graphene e-textile materials produced are durable and washable with acceptable softness/hand feel. The rGO coating enhanced the tensile strength of cotton fabric and also the flexibility due to the increase in strain% at maximum load. We demonstrate the potential application of these graphene e-textiles for wearable electronics with activity monitoring sensor. This could potentially lead to a multifunctional single graphene e-textile garment that can act both as sensors and flexible heating elements powered by the energy stored in graphene textile supercapacitors.

  19. Integrated graphene/nanoparticle hybrids for biological and electronic applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Kim Truc; Zhao, Yanli

    2014-05-01

    The development of novel graphene/nanoparticle hybrid materials is currently the subject of tremendous research interest. The intrinsic exceptional assets of both graphene (including graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide) and nanoparticles render their hybrid materials synergic properties that can be useful in various applications. In this feature review, we highlight recent developments in graphene/nanoparticle hybrids and their promising potential in electronic and biological applications. First, the latest advances in synthetic methods for the preparation of the graphene/nanoparticle hybrids are introduced, with the emphasis on approaches to (1) decorate nanoparticles onto two-dimensional graphene and (2) wrap nanoparticles with graphene sheets. The pros and cons of large-scale synthesis are also discussed. Then, the state-of-the-art of graphene/nanoparticle hybrids in electronic and biological applications is reviewed. For electronic applications, we focus on the advantages of using these hybrids in transparent conducting films, as well as energy harvesting and storage. Biological applications, electrochemical biosensing, bioimaging, and drug delivery using the hybrids are showcased. Finally, the future research prospects and challenges in this rapidly developing area are discussed.

  20. High performance supercapacitors based on highly conductive nitrogen-doped graphene sheets.

    PubMed

    Qiu, Yongcai; Zhang, Xinfeng; Yang, Shihe

    2011-07-21

    Thermal nitridation of reduced graphene oxide sheets yields highly conductive (∼1000-3000 S m(-1)) N-doped graphene sheets, as a result of the restoration of the graphene network by the formation of C-N bonded groups and N-doping. Even without carbon additives, supercapacitors made of the N-doped graphene electrodes can deliver remarkable energy and power when operated at higher voltages, in the range of 0-4 V. This journal is © the Owner Societies 2011

Top