One step mechanosynthesis of graphene oxide directly from graphite

Abstract

Abstract A fast method for the synthesis of graphene oxide directly from a graphitic material via a one-step mechanochemical process without adding solvent, acid or oxidizing agents, is presented. Chemical, structural and morphological characterization of such material was carried on by Raman, FT-IR and UV/vis spectroscopies, Atomic Force Microscopy, X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. Functional groups present in the material are similar to those of materials produced via methods related to that of Hummers or by mechanical milling. Although its interlayer spacing is lower than in the former, it allowed its exfoliation via sonication. Oxygen content of up to 11.1% is comparable to what is reported for materials synthesized by mechanical milling, nevertheless, this process was carried on in less time and without using added oxidizing agents or inert atmospheres. This oxidation is achieved decreasing rotational speed (1060\u2009rpm) but increasing the degrees of freedom (5) of milling jars. When comparing against past reports, it is evident that degrees of freedom affects reaction times more than rotational speed.