Fabrication Of Graphene Oxide Films Research Articles

Synergistic role of MoS2 in gelation-induced fabrication of graphene oxide films.

Supporting materials for electrocatalysts must exhibit relative chemical inertness to facilitate unimpeded movement of gas, and demonstrate electrical conductivity to promote efficient electron transfer to the catalyst. Conventional catalyst electrodes, such as glassy carbon, carbon cloths, or Ni foam, are commonly employed. However, the challenge lies in the limited stability observed during testing due to the relatively weak adhesion between the catalyst and the electrode. Addressing this limitation is crucial for advancing the stability and performance of catalyst-electrode systems in various applications. Here, we suggest a novel fabrication method for a freestanding conducting film, accomplished through gelation, incorporating 1T-MoS2 and graphene oxide. 1T-MoS2 nanosheets play a crucial role in promoting the reduction of graphene oxide (GO) on the Zn foil. This contribution leads to accelerated film formation and enhanced electrical conductivity in the film. The synergistic effect also enhances the film's stability as catalyst supports. This study provides insights into the effective utilization of MoS2 and graphene oxide in the creating of advanced catalyst support systems with potential applications in diverse catalytic reaction.

Electrocoagulation driven fabrication of graphene oxide films

A unique electrocoagulation based method enabling the deposition of graphene oxide (GO) films on copper was developed. This method involves two distinct steps, (i) electrocoagulation of GO particles dispersed in aqueous media, induced by copper ions produced at the anode and (ii) deposition of the particles onto the copper anode. Under acidic conditions, GO films with tailorable thicknesses (3–130 μm) were readily deposited on the anode by varying applied voltage and deposition time in a controllable manner. The GO particles exhibited negative zeta-potentials, facilitating deposition on the positive anode. The copper oxidation state in the GO film was confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to be 2+, while its concentration within the GO film was strongly dependent on the applied voltages and deposition time. This new approach can be extended to other metal substrates, opening up new avenues for employing GO in a wide variety of energy and membrane applications.

Low Cost Fabrication of Graphene Oxide Films As Efficient Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC)

Graphene-oxide was prepared by screen printing to validate as an alternative counter electrode material to platinum in dye sensitized solar cells. The synthesis of graphene oxide was carried out by modified Hummer’s method using graphite flakes. Subsequently, graphene oxide paste was prepared by mixing α-terpineol and ethyl cellulose, which was screen-printed on FTO glass (TEC8) substrates. The screen printed films were subjected to annealing at 450°C for 30 minutes. The graphene oxide films were characterised by X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Raman spectroscopy for the required identification. The device fabrication was carried out by coupling TiO2 films soaked in N719 dye with Surlyn as the spacer between the electrodes. The J-V measurements were carried out with the help of the solar Simulator AM1.5G condition under standard one Sun illumination. The DSSC fabricated with graphene oxide as counter electrode exhibited photoconversion efficiency of 5.58% whereas, platinum based devices showed photoconversion efficiency of 7.57%. The catalytic properties of graphene oxide films are being investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical Impedance spectroscopy. The present study suggests that graphene oxide counter electrodes can be considered as a promising alternative to platinum, with further optimisation, which clearly has advantages in terms of its abundance and low cost processing towards industrial prospects.

Weighing Acetonitrile Against Water as Dispersing Media for Fabrication of Graphene Oxide Films via Electrophoretic Deposition

This paper reports the deposition of graphene oxide thin films via electrophoretic deposition process (EPD) in two different media. Pristine graphene oxide (GO) platelets are fabricated through modified Hummer's method. The platelets are dispersed in two different dispersing media, namely acetonitrile (ACN) and distilled water. The morphology, thickness and surface properties of these films are analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), current density-time graphs obtained during EPD, Hansen, and Hildebrand solubility parameters. GO suspension in ACN exhibits more suitable film forming properties rather than GO suspension in water. Although GO platelets dispersed in water remain stable for a longer time, the platelets in ACN can move more easily toward the positive electrode (anode). Additionally, the quality of the film of GO-water suspension is affected by the electrolysis of water which occurs on the anode.