Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

Fabrication of Three-Dimensional Graphene-Based Polyhedrons via Origami-Like Self-Folding
Published on: September 23, 2018
Structural distortions in few-layer graphene creases.
Alex W Robertson1, Alicja Bachmatiuk, Yimin A Wu
1Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, United Kingdom.
Folds in few-layer graphene (FLG) grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) create stacking faults near the crease. These structural changes impact electronic properties, crucial for device fabrication.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Graphene grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) often exhibits folds and creases.
- These defects arise from differences in thermal expansion between graphene and its catalyst, and during transfer processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the atomic structure of creases in few-layer graphene (FLG).
- To understand how these creases affect the crystal stacking and electronic properties of FLG.
Main Methods:
- Aberration-corrected high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (AC-HRTEM) was employed.
- 2D Fast Fourier Transforms (FFTs) and real-space image analysis were used to elucidate crystal structure.
- Multislice atomistic transmission electron microscopy (TEM) simulations corroborated the findings.
Main Results:
- Strain-induced stacking faults were identified in the AB Bernal-stacked FLG near crease terminations.
- The detailed layer configuration within the crease was determined.
- Significant out-of-plane distortions were observed at crease termination points.
Conclusions:
- The formation of stacking faults in FLG creases due to strain is confirmed.
- Understanding these structural modifications is essential for predicting and controlling the electronic properties of transferred CVD-graphene.
- These findings are critical for the successful fabrication of electronic devices using FLG.
Related Concept Videos
Conformations of Cyclohexane
The chair form is the most stable and derives its name from its resemblance to the “easy chair.” In the chair conformation, two carbon atoms are arranged out-of-plane — one above and one below, minimizing the torsional strain. In the chair form, the bond angle is very close to the ideal tetrahedral value,...
Imperfections in Crystal Structure: Point, Line and Plane Defects
Deformations in a Symmetric Member in Bending
When the member is segmented into tiny cubic elements, it is observed that the primary stress...
Conformations of Cycloalkanes
Deformations in a Transverse Cross Section
As the material stretches, it expands or contracts in orthogonal directions to the load. This phenomenon varies...
Imperfections in Crystal Structure: Stoichiometric Point Defects

