Large-scale synthesis of graphene by the reduction of graphene oxide at room temperature using metal nanoparticles as catalyst

A simple chemical approach has been developed for the synthesis of graphene through a mild reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using metal nanoparticles as the catalyst for the hydrolysis reaction of NaBH4 at room temperature. The morphology and structure of the graphene were characterized with atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The reduction process and quality of graphene were followed and examined by UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. By this method, graphene can be prepared in large quantity without using toxic reducing agents such as hydrazine or its derivatives, making it environmentally benign. The reaction is conducted under mild conditions (room temperature), resulting in the formation of fewer defects. The method can be easily scaled up and the metal catalyst can be recycled. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.