Synthesis of nanosized flake carbons by RF-chemical vapor method

Flake graphite is a well-known material usually produced from acid intercalation submitted to a thermal shock. This study successfully synthesized carbon-nanoflakes doping Fe metal via a RF sputter system at low temperatures (about 150 degrees C) and then using the ultrasonic irradiation technique to exfoliate flake-carbon. The carbon-nanoflakes with a thickness of about 9 nm were evidenced by TEM examinations. The Raman spectroscopy supports the existence of graphitized carbon at the nanoscale. Considering their superior electrical conductivity, the carbon-nanoflakes may have potential applications, such as serving as vacuum electronic devices, catalyst supports for fuel cells, electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries, and electronic conduct fillers for preparing conducting polymer composites. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.