Introduction

Production of graphene nano-plates decorated with zinc oxide nano-sticks, which combine the properties and characteristics of the two types of nanostructures. Zinc oxide-based materials exhibit complementary properties with respect to graphene-based nanostructures.

Technical features

Production of graphene-based composite nanostructures (GNP) obtained by suspended growth of ZnO nanorods and microrods on unsupported GNP flakes. The developed method allows a uniform decoration of the graphene nano-plates on both surfaces and the control of the size of the ZnO nano-sticks and of the coating density. The new graphene-ZnO nanostructures developed show improved physical, chemical, mechanical, electrical characteristics compared to the non-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets. The new nanostructures, which then appear in the form of nanostructured powders and can be supplied both dry and in suspension with different types of solvents. The new nanostructures, which then appear in the form of nanostructured powders and can be supplied both dry and in suspension with different types of solvents. It is also reported a technique to produce graphene nanoplachets, coated with ZnO nano and microbands, doped with mono and divalent metal ions. The invention has been experimentally validated and several prototypes have already been realized. The TRL considered to be 4 at the present time. Time to market can be estimated to range between 18 to 24 months.

Possible Applications

• Polymer matrix composite nanofillers to obtain materials with improved properties;
• Absorbent radar materials;
• Materials for energy harvesting;
• Suspensions or antimicrobial materials.

Advantages

• Low cost;
• Low environmental impact, water-based suspension development;
• Scalability to large-scale production;
• Possibility of supplying both dry and suspended nanostructures with different types of solvents.