Synthesis of Graphdiyne Hollow Spheres and Multiwalled Nanotubes and Applications in Water Purification and Raman Sensing

Controlling the structure of graphdiyne (GDY) is crucial for the discovery of new properties and the development of new applications. Herein, the microemulsion synthesis of GDY hollow spheres (HSs) and multiwalled nanotubes composed of ultrathin nanosheets is reported for the first time. The formation of an oil-in-water (O/W) microemulsion is found to be a key factor controlling the growth of GDY. These GDY HSs have fully exposed surfaces because of the avoidance of overlapping between nanosheets, thereby showing an ultrahigh specific surface area of 1246 m2 g-1 and potential applications in the fields of water purification and Raman sensing.

Automated summary

Controlling the structure of graphdiyne (GDY) is important for exploring new properties and applications. This study presents the microemulsion synthesis of GDY hollow spheres and multiwalled nanotubes composed of ultrathin nanosheets for the first time. The formation of an oil-in-water microemulsion is found to be the key factor in controlling GDY growth. The resulting GDY hollow spheres have fully exposed surfaces, exhibiting an ultrahigh specific surface area of 1246 m2 g-1 and potential applications in water purification and Raman sensing.