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Dual fluorescence of graphene oxide: a time-resolved study
Xian-Fu Zhang1, Xiaona Shao, Suping Liu
1Chemistry Department, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China. zhangxianfu@tsinghua.org.cn
The Journal of Physical Chemistry. A
|June 14, 2012
Summary
Graphene oxide (GO) exhibits dual fluorescence bands, a blue and a long-wavelength emission, dependent on pH and excitation. This pH-sensitive, long-lived emission offers potential for sensing and imaging applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Graphene oxide (GO) is a promising nanomaterial with unique optical properties.
- Understanding the fluorescence mechanisms of GO is crucial for its application development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dual fluorescence emission properties of graphene oxide (GO).
- To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of GO's dual emission and its dependence on environmental factors.
- To explore the potential applications of GO's fluorescence characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Recording fluorescence lifetime, emission, and excitation spectra.
- Measuring UV-visible and near-IR absorption spectra.
- Analyzing fluorescence properties under varying GO concentration, excitation wavelength, and pH.
Main Results:
- Simultaneous observation of blue (~440 nm) and long-wavelength (~700 nm) emission bands in GO.
- Dual emission is linked to GO's protonation/deprotonation, influenced by pH, concentration, and excitation wavelength.
- Blue band emission attributed to n-π* transition with pH-sensitive components, suitable for sensing and imaging.
- Long-wavelength band emission assigned to π-π* transition.
Conclusions:
- Graphene oxide exhibits broadband, long-lived, pH-sensitive, and excitation-dependent fluorescence.
- The dual emission characteristics of GO can be tailored for diverse applications, including chemical sensing and fluorescence lifetime imaging.
