Mechanochemical synthesis of graphene nanoplatelets from expanded graphite compound

Abstract

Mechanochemical exfoliation of graphite materials is one method for obtaining graphene nanoplatelets. The mechanochemical synthesis of graphene nanoplatelets, which includes the synthesis of an expanded graphite compound and mechanochemical treatment, is studied experimentally. The expanded graphite compound is obtained by the cold expansion of graphite intercalated with a solution of ammonium persulfate in sulfuric acid. The resulting expanded graphite compound is treated with a base (urea) to reduce acidity and the redox potential of the system before adding organic components. Glycerol is used as a medium for mechanochemical exfoliation.