Direct synthesis of graphene layers on a final-use surface

Abstract

The simultaneous synthesis and application of graphene-layered (graphenoid) materials directly onto a surface, or the direct construction of specific structures using this type of material, could lead to significant developments in various scientific fields. In this study, graphene layers were synthesized and directly applied to a target surface using an instantaneous reduction method based on the incidence of an electric arc that reduces cyclohexane vapor on the surface. The surface evaluated was fiberglass, a material with a curved shape and high contact angle, representing a challenging, or even worst-case, scenario for such depositions. As a result of the process features, as well as its evaluation at different time intervals, graphene-layered structures with varying shapes, thicknesses, roughness, porosities, and topographical profiles were obtained. Furthermore, the formation of compact and mechanically resistant structures was also observed. Throughout the study, the key attributes of this method were presented and discussed, demonstrating its potential to advance the field of direct synthesis and application of graphene-based materials.