A Method for Processing Graphite, Graphene, and Nanoribbons in Superacids for Their Use in Fibers, Films, and Other Shaped Articles
- Detailed Technology Description
- None
- *Abstract
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Challenge
The potential utility ofgraphite and its related materials in electronic and structural applications ishampered by their limited solubility in common solvents. Even those materials that are capable offorming dispersions do not show liquid crystalline behavior in solution. Becausepoor dispersion degrades the carbon materials’ structural and electronicproperties, this limited solubility hinders their processing into functionalarticles and impedes their use in composite materials.
Solution
Sonicationis the conventional solution to this problem of poor solubility. This approach, however, can mechanically damagethe graphene particles and thus places an upper limit on the attainableparticle size.
Thepresent invention teaches a novel method for the dissolution of graphite,graphite oxide, and graphene nanoribbons over a wide range ofconcentrations. This method also allowsfor the formation of liquid crystalline phases with different particlesizes. Different fluid phases can beinduced through this method by controlling experimental conditions. This feature allows for the carbon materialsto be suitably tailored for application in composites, chemicalfunctionalization, or for processing into fibers or sheets.
Benefitsand features
- Process is scalable.
- Different fluid phases can be obtained
- Renders carbon materials suitable for processing
- Does not damage graphene particles for dissolution
MarketPotential / Applications
This process is of potentialutility in any application requiring a dispersion of carbon materials forincorporation with polymeric and non-polymeric materials. Such high concentration solutions of thesematerials facilitate their processing into high performance fibers, films, andcomposites. These materials are valuedin the aerospace industry. Otherpotential applications include those involving electronic devices or protectivebody armors.
Development and LicensingStatus
Thistechnology is available for licensing from Rice University.
RiceResearchers
Matteo Pasquali is a professorin Rice University’s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. He has served as co-director of the CarbonNanotechnology Laboratory, and his research program focuses on the behavior of liquidmicro/nano structures in complex fluids.
James M. Tour is the T.T. andW.F. Chao Professor of Chemistry at Rice University. He has published over 400 research articlesand is a named inventor on over 40 patents and patent applications.
TechnologyRelevant Papers and Web Links
“SpontaneousHigh-concentration Dispersions and Liquid Crystals of Graphene,” Nature Nanotechnology, 5, 2010, 406-411.
“High-yieldProduction of Graphene by Liquid-phase Exfoliation of Graphite”, Nature Nanotechnology, 3, 2008, 563-568.
“ProcessableAqueous Dispersions of Graphene Nanosheets,” Nature Nanotechnology, 3, 2008, 101-105.
PCTApplication US2010/024754
AU.S. patent application has also been filed for this invention.
Pasqualiwebsite: pasquali.rice.edu
Tourwebsite: jmtour.com
Case# 2009-024
KeyWords: graphene,materials, composites, solubility
Inquiriesto:
Luba Pacala, lpacala@rice.edu, (713) 348-5590
Chance Rainwater, crainwater@rice.edu (713) 348-4106
- Country/Region
- USA
