Abstract
This paper introduces a simple and effective process of directly enhancing the ripple formation of graphene sheets by using spark plasma sintering (SPS) system. The morphology, microstructure and surface property of the pristine and SPS treated graphene sheets were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy and contact angle meter. The results reveal that: 1) A large amount of ripples can be induced in graphene sheets after SPS treatment at 1300 °C, and the pristine graphene surfaces change from smoothness into roughness with the patterns; 2) There are three kinds of graphene ripples with different structures after SPS treatment; (3) After the formation of ripples, the SPS-treated graphene sheets become hydrophobicity. In addition, the formation mechanism of the graphene ripples was also discussed in this paper.
Highlights
Since its isolation through mechanical exfoliation by Novoselov et al.,[1] graphene has attracted a great deal of scientific interests owing to its unique properties, such as thinnest known material in the universe, strongest material ever measured, record thermal conductivity, highest current density at room temperature, lightest charge carriers, and large surface area
Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is one of the plasma technologies that is usually used for producing nano-ceramic materials.[15]
Many researches have demonstrated that SPS is an effective approach in varying the microstructure of carbon materials, such as altering the sp[2] bonding in carbon nanotubes (CNTs),[16] producing unique defects on CNTs surface,[17] and forming a heterogeneous junction for application of electronic devices.[18]
Summary
Since its isolation through mechanical exfoliation by Novoselov et al.,[1] graphene has attracted a great deal of scientific interests owing to its unique properties, such as thinnest known material in the universe, strongest material ever measured, record thermal conductivity, highest current density at room temperature, lightest charge carriers, and large surface area. The ripple's enhancement in graphene sheets by spark plasma sintering
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