Size and dispersion control of Pt nanoparticles grown upon graphite-derived nanosheets

Abstract

Graphite oxide nanosheets (GO), graphene nanosheets (GNS), and nanocomposites comprising of GO or GNS coated with polypyrrole (PPy) were prepared and assessed for their ability to influence the surface deposition and growth of Pt nanoparticles. GO was obtained from graphite via oxidation and exfoliation, and GNS was obtained from GO in a subsequent reduction. Both GO and GNS were coated with PPy via in situ polymerization of pyrrole (Py), forming surface-enhanced materials. SEM, EDX, TEM, EELS, Raman, and AFM findings showed that the Pt nanoparticle loading, agglomeration size, aggregate morphology and surface dispersion varied according to the nanosheet surface, nanocomposite type, and Py/nanosheet feed ratio