Laser-assisted explosive synthesis and transfer of turbostratic graphene-related materials for energy conversion applications

Abstract

Production of high-grade graphene-like materials using a simple, reliable processes and its simultaneous transfer onto soft surfaces have not yet achieved; hence impeding wide-ranging graphene applications. Even more complex processes are required to prepare graphene-based nanohybrids, which offer additional synergistic functionalities in relation to graphene. Here, an uncomplicated and scalable process to prepare high-purity few-layer turbostratic graphene and graphene/SiOx nanohybrids is demonstrated employing laser-mediated explosive synthesis and transfer of graphene flakes. The process is capable of producing, and simultaneously transferring, graphene flakes on any substrate, such as polymer, glass, metal, ceramics, etc. Graphene and nanohybrids exhibit sp2 structures of turbostratic stacking, with low sheet resistance and very high (~30) C/O ratio. The merits of the method are showcased by two energy-related examples, flexible single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerators and electric double-layer capacitors. This method emerges as a paradigm of additive manufacturing for graphene-based devices with impact for applications in flexible electronics.