The invention provides a method for the bacterial reduction of graphene oxide (GO) using non-pathogenic bacterial cultures. This process is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and allows for the mass production of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) without the use of harmful chemicals.
Figure (1) Control experiments presenting graphene oxide (GO) interaction with nutrient broth media (without any bacterial species); (2) Images of synthesized bacterially reduced graphene oxide (Br-RGO) for GO concentrations (0.2- 1.2mg/ml) in presence of Shigella dysenteriae.
Traditional methods of reducing graphene oxide involve toxic chemicals and high costs, making it difficult to produce RGO on a large scale. This invention addresses these challenges by introducing a green, biological route for GO reduction.
- Biological reduction method: Utilizes bacterial cultures (S. dysenteriae and S. aureus) for reducing GO.
- Extracellular electron transfer: Achieves GO reduction through an extracellular electron transport mechanism.
- Instant reduction: Achieves rapid reduction of GO by adding it during the mid-log growth phase of the bacteria.
- Environmental friendliness: Eliminates the need for harmful chemicals in the reduction process.
- Cost-effectiveness: Utilizes inexpensive materials and processes.
- Scalability: Capable of large-scale production of RGO.
- Biocompatibility: Suitable for biomedical applications due to the use of non-pathogenic bacteria.
The process involves preparing GO via the Hammer’s method, followed by bacterial reduction using S. dysenteriae and S. aureus in nutrient broth. The reduction occurs at 37°C over 10 hours, resulting in black precipitates of Br-RGO which are then characterized and confirmed to match the quality of chemically reduced graphene oxide.
The technology has been successfully developed and characterized, demonstrating the capability for instant and large-scale production of RGO using a green bacterial route.
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This green approach to producing RGO offers significant environmental benefits by avoiding toxic chemicals, thereby reducing potential health and environmental hazards. It also provides a cost-effective solution for industries, enhancing the accessibility of advanced graphene-based materials for various applications.
- Biomedical applications: Potential use in electrochemical sensing of biomolecules, and as a bio-marker in chemical sensors.
- Nanocomposites: Blending with polymers to enhance composite properties.
- Energy storage: Use as electrode materials in capacitors, batteries, and fuel cells.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
1604/MUM/2014
419047