New Insights into the Microstructural Analysis of Graphene Oxide

Abstract

Aim and Objective: To explore the impact of synthesis conditions (temperature and time) on the properties of developed Graphene Oxide (GO). Background: A highly promising approach has been used for the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) from graphite flakes using the modified Hummers method. Concentrated sulfuric acid was used as an intercalating agent and the oxidation was done with the help of potassium permanganate and hydrogen peroxide. Methods: The present method does not need expensive membranes for the filtration of Carbon and metalcontaining residues. The pre-cooling method is used to eradicate the explosive behavior of intermediate steps. The high quality of synthesized graphene oxides was confirmed by a series of characterization techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Results: The results indicated the presence of Oxygen-containing functional groups, and a rise in the Oxygen content confirmed the synthesis of high-quality graphene oxide. Conclusion: As per obtained experimental findings and subsequent analysis, the synthesized high-quality graphene oxide could be used in the design of membranes for water treatment applications.