The invention combines chemical and microwave-assisted synthesis methods for materials like nano-graphite, zirconia, blends such as fly ash with carbon-based catalysts, and materials for photocatalysis. It aims to achieve cost-effective production and energy-efficient processing of high-surface-area materials. This innovative synthesis route allows conversion of waste materials from other processes into value-added products, making it suitable for industrial applications with fast production capabilities and reduced energy consumption compared to conventional methods.
Figure 1. A flowchart depicting a method of obtaining graphene from graphite using microwave assisted synthesis
Producing graphene and graphene oxide efficiently, cost-effectively, and at high yield for industrial applications poses a significant challenge. There is a need for a developed process that is adaptable for enabling roll-to-roll processing on a range of coatings applied to both conducting and non-conducting substrates.
- This innovative method offers high graphene yield using top-down (from graphite to graphene) approach.
- This method allows modification of materials (like clay, fly ash, silica) to enable their usage in various applications (photo catalysis, filtration, structural applications, etc).
- Graphene is obtained in powdered form.
- It enables control over graphene's defect concentration based on chemical and microwave parameters.
- It facilitates quick unzipping of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and allows for production of larger quantities. The rapid synthesis is suitable for industrial applications.
- It offers substantial reduction in energy consumption and processing costs.
The process involves preparing a mixture with specified amounts of graphite, ammonium thiosulfate, urea salt, silane, and hydrogen peroxide. This mixture is sonicated for a predetermined period to form a homogeneous solution, which is then refluxed for a set time to create a stock solution. The stock solution is subjected to microwave irradiation at a certain power level for a specified duration. As a result, graphite undergoes exfoliation, producing powdered graphene.
This innovation has been demonstrated and validated in lab environment.
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The process prevents the usage of any toxic chemicals and converts waste materials from other processes to value added new materials. Thus, it is safe and beneficial to the environment as it recycles waste.
Microwave-assisted production of graphene and graphene oxide, combined with chemical methods, offers high yields and versatility in applications. It finds use in energy storage, heat exchangers, transportation, coatings, and lightweight graphene-based composites. This process allows for substrate processing without substrate heating, reducing thermal shock, and supports a wide range of substrates including polymers and metals.
201621014972
521351