PSE Success Story

Graphene Research at Argonne

Graphene is an extraordinary material made up of hexagonally-packed carbon atoms. A sheet of graphene is only one atom thick, making it nature's version of an ideal two-dimensional material. The band structure and symmetry of graphene result in electron mobilities that are two orders of magnitude greater than those observed in silicon. In addition, graphene is highly transparent, thermally conductive, flexible, chemically inert, biologically compatible and 200 times stronger than steel. Research efforts focus on using the properties of graphene for a variety of applications and technological advancements.

At Argonne's Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM), researchers are exploring state-of-the-art synthesis, characterization, processing and novel applications of graphene.

The Challenge

To identify material defects and to guide the optimization of both established and novel large-scale synthesis efforts of graphene.

Graphene: Synthesis, characterization, processing, application.

The Solution

Using the highest resolution microscopes at Argonne's CNM, scientists are able to characterize the structural, electronic and chemical properties of graphene on an atomic scale.

The Results

Many properties of graphene have been characterized at the atomic scale. The first synthesis of graphene on single crystal copper (Cu) has been achieved. Its characterization revealed specific defects as the root cause for decreased performance of graphene-grown Cu foil. Argonne researchers are also actively modifying the physical properties of graphene using chemistry, engineering and nanolithography. Some of the direct applications of Argonne's graphene research include advanced solar cell design, enhancing electronic material performance and efficiency, and the use of graphene as a supporting substrate to probe basic energy conversion processes.

"The novel synthesis and processing of graphene, combined with atomic-scale characterization, is critical at a fundamental level that will directly impact the practical application of this material," said Argonne scientist Nathan Guisinger.

More

• Poster: Graphene Research at Argonne (pdf)

September 2011