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Updated: May 21, 2026
14:52
Fabrication of Three-Dimensional Graphene-Based Polyhedrons via Origami-Like Self-Folding
Published on: September 23, 2018
Two dimensional soft material: new faces of graphene oxide
Jaemyung Kim1, Laura J Cote, Jiaxing Huang
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States.
Accounts of Chemical Research
|June 6, 2012
Summary
Graphene oxide (GO) sheets, derived from graphite, exhibit unique soft material properties. Their amphiphilic nature and tunable characteristics enable new applications in composites, sensors, and advanced materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- Colloid Science
Background:
- Graphene oxide (GO) is derived from graphite via chemical exfoliation.
- GO sheets are 2D, with thicknesses around 1 nm and lateral dimensions varying widely.
- GO's functionalization results in electrically insulating yet water-dispersible sheets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the soft material characteristics of graphene oxide (GO).
- To explore GO's properties as a 2D amphiphile and its applications.
- To discuss GO's potential in material assembly and advanced composites.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of GO structure, including nanographitic patches and oxygenated domains.
- Investigation of GO's amphiphilic behavior influenced by pH and sheet size.
- Exploration of GO's self-assembly and composite formation capabilities.
Main Results:
- GO exhibits 2D amphiphilicity, with hydrophilic peripheries and hydrophobic centers.
- Tunable amphiphilicity allows for controlled solution properties and thin film formation.
- GO acts as a surfactant and a dispersing agent for novel all-carbon composites.
Conclusions:
- Graphene oxide's soft material properties, including its amphiphilicity, are key to its diverse applications.
- GO's ability to guide material assembly via π-π stacking and hydrogen bonding is significant.
- GO is a versatile 2D material with potential for discoveries in chemistry and materials science.
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