Graphene nanoscrolls fabricated by ultrasonication of electrochemically exfoliated graphene

Abstract

Here we present a bulk production process for the creation of graphene nanoscrolls utilizing electrochemistry. Due to the open-ended morphology of graphene nanoscrolls they make an excellent candidate for hydrogen storage. Theoretical estimates show that graphene nanoscrolls can store at least twice as much hydrogen as carbon nanotubes. Graphite is converted into graphene through a green electrochemical exfoliation method with sodium dodecyl sulfate (commonly found in consumer products). Applying ultrasonication, the graphene nanosheets will roll up into scrolls from the shock waves created due to cavitation created in an ethanol solution. X-ray analysis and electron microscopy, we show the transition from graphite to graphene to nanoscrolls. X-ray analysis shows the crystallinity of our material, looking at the 26°mark can determine whether the structure is considered graphite (>10 layers of graphene) or graphene. Comparison of Graphene nanoscrolls with SWCNT and MWCNT at 45°show similar structuring.