Fast synthesis of highly-oxidized graphene oxide by twostep oxidation process

Abstract

Graphene oxide is a well-known material often used as a precursor for the synthesis of graphene, its derivatives and other graphene-based materials. Our highly-oxidized graphene oxide was prepared according to the modified Tour's method by a two-step oxidation of pure graphite and, subsequently, of graphite oxide. The oxygen content was analyzed using combustible elemental analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The structure, morphology and chemical composition were investigated by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-Ray powder diffraction. The thermal stability in air atmosphere was studied using simultaneous thermal analysis and in inert atmosphere by simultaneous thermal analysis combined with mass spectroscopy.