Processable Few-Layer Graphenes via Functionalization – The Holy Grail towards Commercialization

Sixonia Tech has developed a process that creates the ability to functionalize few-layer graphenes deliberately and precisely, directly during their production. Compared to other “graphene” products, our E-Graphenes show a superior combination of tailorable properties within a single material, such as large flake-size in the µm-range, low thickness in the range of typically 1-5 layers and good processability. Unlike in (r)GO, the defined functional groups can provide an improved processability, while still maintaining high electrical conductivity and reasonable sheet size.
Our scalable and eco-friendly electrochemical process opens up new possibilities and prospects for the applications of graphene, in the field of inks, composites, sensors, energy storage and energy conversion. As an example, our E-Graphenes can be functionalized to be dispersible in water without the need for surfactants, while still maintaining an intrinsic conductivity that is at least one order of magnitude higher than that of commonly used reduced graphene oxide (rGO) materials. In contrast to liquid phase exfoliated (LPE) graphene materials, the absence of surfactants can also significantly increase achievable conductivities after deposition and reduce the number of necessary downstream processing steps.