Enhanced dispersion and antibacterial activity of mechanically exfoliated graphite flakes in the presence of n-hexane and NaCl

Abstract

We report on the high dispersion and antibacterial performance (AP) of graphite flakes prepared by the mechanical exfoliation of bulk graphite materials using wet high energy ball milling (BM) in the presence of NaCl and n-hexane. Synergic effects of functionalized surfaces and sharp edges of well-dispersed carbon flakes offer high dispersion, and promising AP against Escherichia coli (E. coli) through damaging its cell membrane. This paper reports on the facile and green preparation of exfoliated graphitic flakes with enhanced AP.