Reversibility of Graphene Photochlorination

The reversibility of graphene photochemical chlorination was investigated. A high content of Cl is obtained through photochlorination, without changing C hybridization. To accommodate the incorporated Cl, graphene corrugation takes place. However, due to weak bonding, Cl atoms desorb during air exposure and long periods of storage. Chlorination also leads to graphene doping. When Cl is removed, doping decreases and graphene returns to its original morphology. Only a small amount of Cl (Cl/C similar to 0.1) remains strongly bonded to graphene, most likely at grain edges and defects. Therefore, to maintain a precise doping level, Cl trapping methods are essential. Moreover, Cl removal using laser irradiation can be used to tune doping in micrometric areas, making it a promising technique to be used in applications where different doping levels are needed.