Hybridization of conductive few-layer graphene with well-dispersed Pd nanocrystals

Abstract

To improve the activity of Pd nanocrystals (NCs) and maximize the applicability, we used a very simple, low-cost and environmentally benign method to hybridize conductive few-layer graphene with Pd NCs. The TEM results indicated that the monodispersed Pd NCs were well distributed on the graphene surface. The particle size and loading density can be easily tailored by varying reaction times. The XRD and Raman spectrum clearly demonstrated that the pristine exfoliated few-layer graphene are well-crystallized with very low defects, and still preserved the high crystalline structure after the chemical deposition of Pd NCs. Furthermore, this effective process does not require the use of surfactants during the entire reaction, resulting in a clean interface between Pd NCs and graphene substrate, with improved electron transmission. This work presents not only a promising methodology for the mass production of Pd@graphene hybrids, but also opening up the opportunity to develop graphene-Pd based devices for applications in catalysts, sensors and hydrogen storage.