Synthesis of hexagonal boron nitride graphene-like few layers

Self-standing highly crystallized hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) mono-, bi- and few-layers have been obtained for the first time via the Polymer Derived Ceramics (PDCs) route by adding lithium nitride (Li3N) micropowders to liquid-state polyborazylene (PBN). Incorporation of Li3N as a crystallization promoter allows the onset of crystallization of h-BN at a lower temperature (1200 degrees C) than under classical conditions (1800 degrees C). The hexagonal structure was confirmed by both electron and X-ray diffraction.