Physical Properties Comparison of rGO-like phase prepared from Coconut Shell and the Commercial Product

Abstract

Electrical dan magnetic properties of graphene-derivatives materials are strongly influenced by their physical properties. Here we report a study on physical properties of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) prepared from two different raw materials, namely coconut shell (rGO-s) and graphite mineral (rGO-c, produced by Graphenea Inc.). rGO-s was prepared by carbonization method followed by mechanical exfoliation. While both samples have the same density of about 1.9 g/cm 3 , rGO-c has more porous compared to rGO-s. Specific surface area in rGO-c was also obtained much larger than that of rGO-s. Examinations on particle size and surface morphology show that rGO-c has homogenous particles which consist of transparent thin sheets, while rGO-s has rather heterogenous particles that look like dens stacked sheets. The presence of C and O was confirmed at the observed morphology. The difference in physical features was found to influence the obtained electrical conductivity of the samples. rGO-c has higher conductivity than rGO-s. Estimation on gap energy (Eg) indicates that rGO-c and rGO-s have Eg in the range of semiconducting materials. The study provides a better understanding on physical properties of coconut shell-derived rGO to further revise synthesis method to improve quality of the obtained rGO.