Graphene as a new sorbent in analytical chemistry

In the past three years, we have seen intense interest grow in graphene (G) and graphene oxide (GO) as new sorbents in analytical chemistry. This article focuses on the adsorptive properties of G and GO and their application in preconcentrating organic compounds and trace-metal ions, including trace analysis of water, food, biological and environmental samples using chromatography and spectroscopy techniques. Some methods of modification or chemical functionalization of G and GO are also discussed. The article shows that G, GO and their derivatives or composites can be very attractive as sorbents due to their adsorption capacities being much higher than those of any of the currently reported sorbents. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.