Synthesis and investigation of Cu@few-layer graphene shell composites with exceptional conductivity and chemical stability

Abstract

In this study, Cu nanoparticles encapsulated by a few layers of graphene shells (designated as Cu@FLG) were synthesized through a facile pyrolysis process involving CuO and liquid oligoacrylonitrile (LANO). The resulting Cu@FLG composite not only demonstrates excellent electrical conductivity but also exhibits ultrahigh stability against oxidation and corrosion, even when exposed to high temperatures or nitric acid solutions. This remarkable stability is attributed to the compact encapsulation by few layers of graphene shells. The unique Cu@FLG composite shows great potential for applications in the electronics industry due to its low cost, high yield, and exceptional electrical and chemical stability.