Synthesis, electrochemistry and application of 2D and 3D graphene-composite materials

Abstract

Although graphene materials process excellent chemical and physical properties, their practical application is hindered by large-scale production through efficient and environmentally-friendly methods. We developed green approaches for the preparation of graphene materials, and found suitable strategies to assemble them into 2D and 3D macroscopic materials with different functionalities. The application of the self-assembled graphene materials in the field of electrochemistry was also investigated in order to address the current energy and health issues. Specifically, we first fabricated noble nanoparticle modified graphene film and graphene paper for glucose biosensors and direct liquid fuel cells. Carbon nanotubes or metal oxides nanoparticles were then incorporated into the free-standing graphene papers for supercapacitor application. At last, we prepared 3D graphene hydrogels under mild conditions and explored their application for electrochemical energy storage.