A versatile graphene foilElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: The additional characterizations of the GF as well as the electrode including photographs, SEM, EDS, XRD, Raman results and the comparison of density, thickness, electrical conductivity and the electrochemical performances of the GF. See DOI: 10.1039/c7ta03059b

• Main Authors: Cui, L. F, Wang, X. P, Chen, N, Zhang, G. F, Qu, L. T
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2050-7488; 2050-7496
• DOI: 10.1039/c7ta03059b

Free-standing graphene is extremely attractive for a range of applications due to its light-weight and unique structure when the low electrical conductivity and availability are well addressed. We herein prepared microscale-thick graphene foil (GF) via simple chemical vapor deposition on nickel foil. Unlike the self-supporting graphene films reported previously, this distinctive free-standing GF integrated with light weight, less defects, and outstanding electrical conductivity (4149 S cm −1 ) exhibits versatile features for various applications. The GF achieves excellent flame-retardant performance with a high decomposition temperature and can also be used as a perfect substitute for metal current collectors to replace the commercial metal foil in highly stable, lightweight lithium-ion batteries. The GFs provide a new material platform to further expand the practical applications of graphene in a variety of fields. Graphene foil with high electrical conductivity exhibits versatile features, as a flame-retardant material and a substitute for metal current collectors.