Mechanically Strong, Electrically Conductive, and Biocompatible Graphene Paper

Abstract

A study was conducted to demonstrate that highly ordered graphene paper can be prepared by directional flow-induced assembly of graphene sheets that are well dispersed in solution. Moderate thermal annealing can enhance its mechanical stiffness and strength, and also electrical conductivity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reveals that the surface of the graphene paper is quite smooth and the fracture edges of the papers exhibit a layered structure through the entire cross-section. The study has also shown the results of cell culture experiments, which indicate that graphene paper may be biocompatible and therefore suitable for biomedical applications. The combination of the exceptional mechanical strength, thermal stability, high electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility makes graphene paper a promising material for many technological applications, such as inclusion in heart valves.