Effect of synthesis conditions, polymeric stabilizers and heat on graphene nanoplatelet dimensions and colloidal interactions

Graphene has the potential to revolutionize the field of printed electronics thanks to its high conductivity, flexibility, chemical stability and natural abundance. We have previously developed conductive screen printing inks through the gelation of graphene-polymer dispersions. The gelation mechanism of these inks and the role of polymeric stabilizers therein is still poorly understood. Using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), we aim at mapping the effects of synthesis parameters on the dimensions of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) at low concentrations, and the effects of polymeric stabilizers on the shape and interactions of GNPs at higher concentrations. Furthermore, we aim to study the synthesis of graphene over time.