Chapter 5 - Graphene quantum dots, graphene nanoplatelets, and graphene nanoribbons with polymers

Abstract

The unique nanoforms or nanostructures of graphene have opened new paths for the technological relevance of graphene-based nanomaterials. This chapter highlights three essential nanoforms of graphene including graphene quantum dots, graphene nanoplatelets, and graphene nanoribbons. These graphene nanostructures have different structural dimensions and properties. Graphene quantum dot is a zero-dimensional graphene nanoparticle. Graphene nanoplatelet is a two-dimensional nanosheet with sp2 hybridized carbon atoms. Graphene nanoribbon is a thin extended strip of sp2-bonded carbon atoms. The inclusion of graphene quantum dots, graphene nanoplatelets, and graphene nanoribbons to the polymeric matrices have altered the electronic, optical, luminescence, electrical conductivity, mechanical features, thermal stability, morphology, and other physical properties of the nanocomposites. The cutting-edge application areas of the polymer/graphene quantum dot, polymer/graphene nanoplatelet, and polymer/graphene nanoribbon nanocomposites have also been discussed.