Digitization of Free-Shapable Graphene Foam with Damage Tolerance

3D construction of 2D sheets is the key to the utilization of graphene for large scale industrial applications. The layer by layer approach of additive manufacturing enables a high degree of design freedom for the fabrication of 3D graphene structures with excellent mechanical flexibility. Herein, the excellent mechanical and functional properties of 3D nitrogen-doped graphene (NG) foams fabricated is demonstrated via 3D printed templates and template-directed chemical vapor deposition. The super-elastic foam, consisting of interconnected networks of graphene sheets can make near complete strain recovery from load up to 62500 times its own weight, with extraordinary damage tolerance at a low density of 9.5 mg cm(-3). Fast transport of charge carriers (5 S cm(-1)) highlights the potential of the NG foam for use in various functional applications. Observed temperature-invariant reversible elasticity from -196 to 300 degrees C further emphasizes its value for use in demanding environments.

Automated summary

The key to utilizing graphene for large-scale industrial applications lies in the 3D construction of 2D sheets. By using a layer-by-layer approach in additive manufacturing, 3D graphene structures with excellent mechanical flexibility can be fabricated. The demonstrated 3D nitrogen-doped graphene (NG) foams, created via 3D printed templates and template-directed chemical vapor deposition, exhibit exceptional mechanical and functional properties, including super-elasticity, low density, fast charge carrier transport, and temperature-invariant reversible elasticity.