Synthesis and Characterization of Graphe

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of graphene thin films using the Hummers method. The objective was to prepare functionalized graphite oxide (GO) from commercial flake graphite through a chemical treatment process. The methodology involved the exfoliation and intercalation of the graphite to form a stable colloidal dispersion in polar aprotic solvents, followed by the reduction process using hydrazine hydrate. Various characterization techniques were employed, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Attenuated total reflectance (ATR) FT-IR, Ultra-violet visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Magnified Optical Microscopy, which confirmed the successful oxidation of graphite and the reduction of GO into graphene sheets. The results demonstrate the effective transformation of graphite to graphene and highlight the potential applications of these materials in electronic, sensing, and energy conversion devices. This research adds to the growing body of knowledge surrounding graphene-based materials and their functionalities.