Deploying used solid carbon dioxide to assist graphite exfoliation

Abstract

Herein, we describe the possibility of using solid CO₂, also known as dry ice, as an exfoliating agent for thermal-assisted exfoliation of graphite. Used dry ice has been chosen over supercritical CO₂ for its easy availability after storage purposes. HRTEM analysis showed the increased spacing between the stacked graphite layers after exfoliation. BET and Raman analyses provided evidence for an increased surface area and quantity of defects for the exfoliated graphite powder. VSM analysis showed a ∼three-fold improvement in magnetization in the exfoliated graphite powder sample compared to the control.