1D carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and 2D graphene (G) are among the most studied carbon allotropes in the last decade due to their excellent electronic, mechanical and optical properties. Here we demonstrate the formation of planar G/CNT hybrid sheets by annealing functionalized CNTs on Cu foils. The CNTs act as reinforcing bars (rebar), toughening the graphene through both p-p stacking domains and covalent bonding where the CNTs partially unzip and form a seamless 2D hybrid as revealed by aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) analysis. The as-made sp2-carbon based heterostructures can be transferred onto target substrates without the need for a polymer-coating as a result of the structural reinforcement of the CNTs. In addition, we demonstrate the use of these new G/CNT hybrids as flexible all-carbon transparent electrodes. Other 1D or 2D nanomaterials, such as carbon onions and boron nitride nanotubes, can also function the similar roles as CNTs.

Rebar graphene for flexible all-carbon transparent electrodes

247th National Meeting (2014)

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