What is Graphene Oxide?

Graphene oxide (GO) is a single-atomic layered material made by the powerful oxidation of graphite, also referred to as graphite/graphitic oxide it is obtained by treating graphite with oxidizers, and results in a compound of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen in variable ratios.

The structure & properties of GO are much dependent on the particular synthesis method and degree of oxidation and with buckled layers and an interlayer spacing almost two times larger (~0.7 nm) than that of graphite, it typically still preserves the layer structure of the parent graphite.

GO absorbs moisture proportionally to humidity and swells in liquid water. Its membranes are vacuum-tight and impermeable to nitrogen and oxygen, but permeable to water vapors. The ability to absorb water by GO depends on the particular synthesis method and also shows a strong temperature dependence.

One of the advantages GO has over Graphene is that it can be easily dispersed in water and other polar organic solvents. In this way, GO can be dispersed in a solvent and reduced in situ, resulting in potentially mono dispersed Graphene particles.

Due to its unique structure, GO can be functionalized in many ways for desired applications, such as optoelectronics, drug delivery, chemical sensors, membrane filtration, flexible electronics, solar cells, Composites, Paints & Coatings and many more.