In the Eigler group, we focus on the…
Chemistry of graphene, inparticular oxo-chemistry.
Graphene – a Single Layer of Graphite – Oxo-Chemistry of Graphene
While the chemistry and even regiochemistry of fullerenes, such as C60 is well understood, the chemistry of other carbon allotropes are less studied. Graphene chemistry is just developing and controlling the reactivity of the basal plane of graphene is the next challenge. Analytical and synthetic methods are developed. Stabilizing single layer of graphene is one of the main tasks. Chemists must face the hurdles and challenges of this young discipline of science.
Graphene becomes accessible on the gramm-scale and more by oxidizing graphite to a soluble material, termed as graphene oxide. We learned to control this oxidation process not to over-oxidize the carbon framework. Thus, we can study the on-plane chemistry. Consequently, spectroscopic results and changes stem from the surface chemistry and not from defect-sites. However, defects in graphene can also be studied with controlling the formation of defects.
The heterogeneous materials class graphene oxide, or better termed as oxo-functionalized graphene, may be synthesized now with control over the density of lattice defects, size of holes, type of oxo-groups, such as hydroxyl-, epoxy-groups or organosuflate groups. In addition, the size of particles can be controlled and enriched by centrifugation. Also the degree of functionalization can be controlled to direct e.g. the assembly with other molecules.