Fabrication of nano-structured graphene oxide-like few-layer sheets from biocarbon via a green process

Graphene, a single-atom thick, two-dimensional carbon material with remarkable properties is heavily used in advanced functional applications. However, production quality and processes are of concern, and the need for post-modification leads to high cost. Here, a novel production and simultaneous functionalization of few-layer graphene oxide-like nanosheets (FLGON) via a green process from biocarbons (BC) was synthesized. These nanosheets exhibit high crystallinity and flexibility, with few layer thickness of 3.67 nm and stiffness of 40 GPa. They are highly dispersible, forming a stable suspension in aqueous solutions due to abundant oxygen functional groups (34% oxygen content) on the surface structure. The lateral dimension of the nanosheets was estimated to be around 350 nm which was corroborated by the particle size analysis. Zeta potential was observed to remain the same regardless of the oxygenation of the BC at around 31 mV, indicating no formation of ions. A d-spacing of 0.339 nm indicated oxidation of the outer layers and edges of the FLGON with some interlayer oxidation. Properties of the FLGON suggest that it has potential applications in sensors, oxygen scavenging, nanocomposites and as a precursor for further modification. The sustainability of the biocarbons and environmentally friendly production process widens its application potential with reduced concern for economic sustainability.