A review on exfoliation, characterization, environmental and energy applications of graphene and graphene-based composites

Abstract

Because of an atom-thick two-dimensional structure with sp² hybridization, large specific area, high thermal conductivity, superior electron mobility, and chemical stability, graphene (GN) has developed substantial interest among researchers, exponentially accelerating GN based research. GN and its derivatives are the potentially attractive materials to develop composites for energy and environmental applications. This review covered a general overview on physical and chemical properties of GN and based composite materials, briefly summarizing exfoliation methodologies and characterization techniques in the first section. The environmental applications of GN and GN composites in detection of gases, bacteria as well as in the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants were comprehensively addressed in the second section. Third section focused on recent progress associated with the applications of GN and its composites in solar energy conversion, electrochemical energy devices, storage and production of hydrogen. Finally, conclusive remarks emphasizing unresolved problems and major future challenges were covered in the last section. In addition, the prospects and further development of GN and GN composites in energy, environment and bioscience were discussed.

Keywords: Characterization; Energy applications; Environmental applications; Exfoliation; Graphene.