METHODS OF FLASH REDUCTION AND PATTERNING OF GRAPHITE OXIDE AND ITS POLYMER COMPOSITES

Flash Reduction of Graphic Oxide to Graphene NU 2008-166 Inventors Laura Cote Jiaxing Huang* Rodolfo Cruz Silva Abstract Graphite oxide (GO) is a promising precursor for the bulk production of graphene-based materials due to its relatively low cost of synthesis. The superior solvent processability of GO makes it attractive for making composites by premixing with other materials. Typically, the reduction of GO has relied on either chemical agents or high temperature treatment. This invention provides a room temperature, chemical-free flash reduction deoxygenation reaction of GO by photothermal heating. Flash irradiation also rapidly creates a fused polymer composite from a random mixture of GO and polymer particles. Using a photomask, conducting patterns such as interdigitated electrode arrays can be readily made on flexible substrates. Application Fabrication: device and composite materials (eg. flexible transparent conductors) Advantages Bulk production Low cost Energy-efficient Rapid Enhanced electrical conductivity Superior solvent processability Publications Cote LJ, Cruz-Silva R and Huang J (2009) Flash Reduction and Patterning of Graphite Oxide and Its Polymer Composite. Journal of American Chemical Society. 131: 11027-11032. IP Status A patent application has been filed. Marketing Contact Allan E. Nader, Ph.D Licensing Associate (p) (847) 491-4456 (e) a-nader@northwestern.edu