Optical characterization of 2D functionalized nanomaterials in the gas phase

Graphene is a promising new nanomaterial, single layers of graphite, with superior physical and electrical properties making it an ideal candidate for electrical applications; however, current graphene production methods are expensive and complicated. As a result, new materials that have similar properties to graphene, but are more amenable to high-yield production are currently being investigated. A strong candidate is reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which is synthesized by inserting oxygen into graphite making it easier to separate into single layers and then removing the oxygen to get graphene-like properties. The final rGO has similar properties to graphene; however, when removing the oxygen not all oxygen atoms will be removed and defects may be introduced. This can lead to changes in shape and size greatly affecting the final properties. This makes it crucial to understand the shape and size of any rGO produced, ideally in line with the manufacturing. This project looks to use time-resolved laser-induced incandescence (TiRe-LII). TiRe-LII uses a laser pulse to heat nanoparticles and records the incandescence as the particle cools. This data can be used to infer particle characteristics, size, and shape. This project examines the potential of using TiRe-LII to characterize rGO for in-line measurements.

Faculty Supervisor:

Kyle Daun

Student:

Partner:

Universität Duisburg-Essen

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Advanced Manufacturing; Nanotechnology; Energy and Utilities; Quantum Science

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: