One-step, low temperature synthesis of reduced graphene oxide decorated with ZnO nanocrystals using galvanized iron steel scrap

Production of a ZnO-rGO composite, using a novel one-pot method consisting in continuously flowing argon into a GO aqueous suspension heated at 80 degrees C, in the presence of galvanized iron steel scrap is presented. FTIR shows the complete disappearance of GO functional groups and only the C=C band remained, indicating extensive GO reduction. Raman spectra indicated sp(2) character increase after reaction and the presence of the E-2h mode of ZnO. SEM showed submicron crystals identified by XRD as ZnO in the hexagonal phase, while TEM images indicate ZnO nanoparticles decorate mainly the rGO borders. Optical band gap of 3.5 eV corresponding to ZnO, and optical transitions at 4.1 and 5.5 eV related with n -> pi and pi -> pi* were observed. Electrochemical characterization by cyclic voltammetry shows an specific capacitance of 4.7 F g(-1) at a scan rate of 5 mVs(-1), which drops to ca. 0.8 F g(-1) at 200 mVs(-1). By electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the relaxation time was ca. 5 ms. The proposed mechanism for the materials' synthesis includes Zn dissolution from scrap, galvanic displacement of oxygen moieties at the GO sheet, Zn deposition onto the carbon surface, and further oxidation and growth of ZnO nanocrystals.

Automated summary

A ZnO-rGO composite was successfully produced using a novel one-pot method, showing enhanced structural and performance properties. The ZnO nanoparticles mainly decorate the rGO borders, exhibiting excellent optical and electrochemical characteristics.