Abstract
Metal nanoparticles anchored on a graphene substrate find many applications such as sensors, catalysts, lithium ion batteries, etc. However, to date, graphene-metal nanohybrids have been synthesized by either covalent or ionic interactions between the graphene substrate and the metal nanoparticles. In this manuscript, we report a green and facile method to "bubble pack" metal nanoparticles on a graphene substrate by a simple process utilizing eco-friendly ionic liquids in conjunction with microwave heating. Copper nanoparticles bubble packed on graphene showed enhanced glucose sensing when compared to covalently bonded copper/graphene hybrids. Titania nanoparticles bubble packed on graphene when applied as anode materials in lithium ion batteries exhibited two times more lithium ion retention when compared to covalently bonded titania/graphene hybrids. "End of life" disposal of nanomaterials into the environment is a growing area of concern in recent days. One way of dealing with this problem is to extend the life cycle of nanomaterials by reusing the nanomaterials in multiple applications. In this report, we also show the recyclability of our novel bubble packaging material, by etching out the metal nanoparticles resulting in a unique 3D hierarchical graphene nanocup decorated graphene. The applicability of this recycled material in super capacitors is also reported.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.