Hydroxamic acid-functionalized graphene thin films as nanocatalysts towards organophosphate degradation

Abstract

Herein we describe the covalent functionalization of graphene oxide with hydroxamic acid groups (GOHD) anchored directly on the carboxylate groups. The functionalization was confirmed by several characterization techniques, such as infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The anchored groups have many potential applications, but we focused on its catalytic activity towards organophosphate (OPs) degradation, a serious environmental and health worldwide issue. The material was applied as nanocatalysts towards the degradation of the organophosphate of diethyl 2,4-dinitrophenyl phosphate and the real-life pesticide dimethyl 4-nitrophenyl phosphate (Paraoxon). High catalytic increments were obtained up to 108 fold (Paraoxon). Thus, reactions that would take over millions of years are reduced to a couple of days. Overall, the nanocatalyst shows potential as efficient detoxifying agents to eliminate chemical warfare stocks and pesticides by employing a practical material that can be deposited on any substrate and even over large areas.