Abstract:
Expanded graphite has been synthesized by three different routes to produce graphite nanosheets. The synthesis routes have been compared with volume expansion of graphite after high temperature heat treatment or microwave irradiation. It has been experimentally observed that the volume expansion of graphite, after mixing only with con. sulfuric acid / con. nitric acid mixture and subsequent heat treatment at 930 oC, observed to be maximum (~80%). Optical microscope picture proves the porous structure of acid treated graphite followed by high temperature heat treatment or microwave irradiation. XRD analysis proves crystallite size reduction in treated graphite. FESEM picture proves the formation of graphite nanosheets after high temperature heat treatment.
