While synthesizing graphene oxide by modified Hummers method, I used HCl and acetone for washing purposes. When washing with acetone, while adding the acetone on to graphene oxide, it turns into a gel like product. I centrifuged it at 4000 rpm for 30 mins but so precipitation occurred. I don't know what happened. I was wondering, is there any way I can avoid such a gel like product?
Hello Tanvir Ahamed,
As per my knowledge, When washing graphene oxide with acetone, it is possible that the graphene oxide undergoes a phase transition and forms a gel-like substance due to the interaction between the acetone and the graphene oxide. This gel-like substance is likely a result of the formation of a stable suspension of the graphene oxide sheets in acetone.
To avoid the formation of this gel-like substance, you can try using a different solvent for washing the graphene oxide. Alternatively, you could try reducing the amount of acetone used during the washing process or changing the washing conditions (e.g., temperature or duration of washing).
It is also possible that the centrifugation conditions were not sufficient to separate the graphene oxide from the solvent. You could try increasing the centrifugation speed or time or using a different method of separation (e.g., filtration).
It's worth noting that the properties of graphene oxide can vary depending on the synthesis method used, so the specific conditions required for washing may vary depending on the specific graphene oxide sample being used.
Also, you can wash it with ethanol. Because washing graphene oxide with ethanol is a common and effective method. Ethanol is a polar solvent and can effectively remove residual impurities from graphene oxide. It can also help to disperse the graphene oxide sheets and prevent them from re-aggregating during the washing process. After washing with ethanol, you can remove any excess solvent by centrifugation or vacuum filtration.
I hope this clears your doubt. Good luck with your research!
Best wishes & Regards,
Vishwajit Chavda
Washing graphene oxide with acetone helps to remove residual surfactants and other impurities from the material. This can improve the quality of the graphene oxide and also increase its conductivity. Additionally, washing with acetone can help remove oxygen-containing groups from the surface of the graphene oxide, which can further improve its electrical properties.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Physical Sciences
- Materials Science
- Materials
- Carbon Materials
- Graphite
- Graphene