Use of graphene-based materials containing nanoparticles for energy conversion and storage systems has increased dramatically over the past few years.1-4 Here we explore solution-based synthesis of new graphene material using OH� radicals, herein referred to as oxidized reduced graphene oxide (ORGO). The ORGO synthesis can be tailored to result in nanopores and/or wrinkles. Furthermore, the oxidation of RGO via OH� holds significant implications for the use of RGO in functional designs where intimate contact with radical species is inevitable. The photolysis of H2O2 via UV irradiation was used to generate highly-oxidizing OH� radicals, and the RGO undergoes attack by the OH�radicals. Gold nanoparticles (AuNP) were used as catalysts to further the extent of oxidation. The contrast in UV-Visible absorption spectra for the samples is given in Figure 1 along with inset TEM images of the resulting morphology of the graphene. As is observed hydroxyl radical oxidation of RGO leads to new graphene-based materials with varying degrees of oxidation, wrinkles, and/or holes. Further implications of hydroxyl radical attack on RGO abound considering the ubiquity of RGO in composite designs for energy conversion and storage.

Au-catalyzed OH<sup>�</sup> radical oxidation of reduced graphene oxide

246th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.

Au-catalyzed OH� radical oxidation of reduced graphene oxide

Au-catalyzed OH^� radical oxidation of reduced graphene oxide