Functionalized graphene – how long does it take to develop a mature graphene technology?

Evgeniya Lock

U.S. Naval Research Laboratory

Abstract: Graphene – a wonder material. it is composed entirely of surface atoms, with exceptional physicochemical properties including high specific surface area, high carrier mobilities, and extremely low noise characteristics, thus making graphene extremely sensitive and with a tremendous potential for practical applications. However, the inert nature of graphene provides difficulties as well – in sensing this results in low selectivity of graphene towards the analytes of interest. Stacking of graphene layers with good cohesion is challenging as well and this leads to graphene heterostructures held by weak van der Waals forces.

My talk will be divided in two parts. In the first part I will summarize how functionalization affects graphene’s structure. I will also present our work on graphene functionalization and its effects on graphene’s chemical, structural and electrical properties. Indeed, we demonstrate that graphene functionalization without deterioration of electrical properties is possible and we confirm that by detection of the Quantum Hall Effect and Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations, which are typical for high-quality pristine exfoliated graphene flakes. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the created functional groups can be used as linker molecules for attachment of nanoparticles to the graphene films.

In the second part of my talk, I will focus on how we transitioned this fundamental knowledge into applications, namely into the development of (1) infrared transparent inorganic and organic conductors, and (2) ultrasensitive graphene sensors to detect sulfur concentration in logistic fuels. I will finish my talk with a discussion on the necessary steps to push a laboratory developed technology so that the warfighters can benefit from it.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Lock received her Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from University of Illinois at Chicago in 2006. She then joined the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory as an US National Research Council Fellow after which she became a staff scientist three years later. She is the principal investigator on multiple fundamental and applied 2D-material-based programs. Her fundamental research is focused on the growth, transfer, functionalization and characterization of 2D materials. Her applied research interests include 2D-based chemical, optical, biological and quantum sensing. Dr. Lock has over 60 publications, 7 patents and 12 patent-pending applications, and multiple awards.