Fast synthesis of methacrylated graphene oxide: A graphene-functionalised nanostructure

Abstract

Graphene oxide (GO) was successfully synthesised via modified Hummer method and functionalised by methacrylate named MeGO (metacrylated GO). Different characterisation methods containing UV-vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) analyses were employed to characterise the structure and morphology of MeGO. The outputs of the different analyses confirmed each other and proved the presence of the methacrylate functional group on the surface of the GO. Displacement in the peaks of UV-vis analysis coupled with the new peaks in FTIR results clearly demonstrated the creation of a new functional group. The G/D ratio of MeGO in Raman spectroscopy has increased to 1.17 and FESEM and TEM investigations confirmed the wrinkled structure of MeGO sheets. Also, it was observed that the distance between the GO layers was increased about 2.86 nm after functionalisation of GO layers by methacrylate groups. This nanomaterial with difference characterisation and specific properties in comparison with GO could be a great candidate for further developments in industrial and biomedical applications.