Abstract
MoO2/few layer graphene nanostructures have been prepared via a solvent free easily controllable and scalable process, consisting in the thermolysis of a suitable precursors in presence of few layer graphene (FLG), followed by an annealing. FLG has been prepared by a liquid phase exfoliation in N- methylpyrrolidone (NMP) of graphite, producing unoxidized graphene by a non-covalent, solution-phase method. The hybrid material consists in MoO2 nanostructures on a graphene support anchoring and covering the nanoparticles. The MoO2 nanocrystals result intimately mixed and trapped by the FLG that works as a highly flexible and conductive matrix for good contact between them. In particular, the precursor decomposition was promoted in the temperature range 25-800°C, followed by an annealing to obtain high quality material. The synthesis product was carefully characterized by Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning (SEM) and Transmission (TEM-EDS) Electron Microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TG- DTG-MS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The synthesis process was monitored with a mass spectrometer to follow the evolution of the reactions.
