Formation Mechanism of Graphene Oxide Nano-Sheet Nanocomposites Decorated With Metal Nanoparticles

Graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites have become attractive materials and been extremely used in various significant fields, such as energy and environment. The introduction of various nanoparticles onto GO sheets is a general method to integrate excellent properties and enhance its performance. However, to our best knowledge, the mechanism is still not clear. Here we report the synthesis of GO nano-sheet nanocomposites decorated with iron oxide particles. GO is synthesized through a modified Hummer’s method. Iron nitrate is used as the precursor of iron oxide nanoparticles. The particle growth is controlled through tuning the salt loading and reaction time. And the distribution and growth rate of nanoparticles are studied from the characteristic results. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) are used to characterize the micro characteristics of GO composites. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction are applied to determine the composition of product. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity is also studied for the product after thermal treatment.