Improving the electrical properties of graphene layers by chemical doping

Although the electronic properties of graphene layers can be modulated by various doping techniques, most of doping methods cost degradation of structural uniqueness or electrical mobility. It is matter of huge concern to develop a technique to improve the electrical properties of graphene while sustaining its superior properties. Here, we report the modification of electrical properties of single- bi- and trilayer graphene by chemical reaction with potassium nitrate (KNO₃) solution. Raman spectroscopy and electrical transport measurements showed the n-doping effect of graphene by KNO₃. The effect was most dominant in single layer graphene, and the mobility of single layer graphene was improved by the factor of more than 3. The chemical doping by using KNO₃ provides a facile approach to improve the electrical properties of graphene layers sustaining their unique characteristics.