Preparation, characterization and fundamental studies on graphenes by liquid-phase processing of graphite

• Published in: Journal of alloys and compounds 2012-09, Vol.536 (SUPPL.1), p.S450-S455
• Main Authors: Paredes, J.I., Villar-Rodil, S., Solís-Fernández, P., Fernández-Merino, M.J., Guardia, L., Martínez-Alonso, A., Tascón, J.M.D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alloys; Chemical synthesis methods; Colloidal suspension; Cross-disciplinary physics: materials science; rheology; Derivatives; Exact sciences and technology; Exfoliation; Graphene; Graphene oxide; Graphite; Mass production; Materials science; Methods of nanofabrication; Obstacles; Oxides; Physics; Reduction
• ISSN: 0925-8388; 1873-4669
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2011.10.025

► We overview recent developments in the liquid-phase processing of graphite and graphite derivatives for the mass production of graphene. ► Processing of graphite oxide affords aqueous and organic suspensions of reduced graphene oxide sheets. ► Direct exfoliation of pristine graphite yields stable graphene suspensions in organic solvents and water-surfactant solutions. ► Structurally, graphene oxide is a patchwork of defect-free and oxidized, disordered regions, the former expanding upon reduction. Liquid-phase processing of graphite and graphite derivatives is one of the most promising methodologies for the mass production of graphene. Here, we present a brief overview of the main developments in this research area over the last few years, together with our own contributions to the field. Particularly, we discuss the preparation of graphenes both in aqueous and organic media by reduction of exfoliated graphite oxide as well as by direct exfoliation of pristine graphite, highlighting some of the obstacles that have been encountered along the way and the approaches proposed to overcome them. Some fundamental aspects of graphenes derived from graphite oxide, specifically their structure and reactivity, are also considered.