Green and one step modification of graphene oxide using natural substances

Abstract

The present study is on the production of graphene-based materials via modification of graphene oxide (GO) using a simple, easy to handle and green method. Natural substances cinnamaldehyde (CA) and undecylenic acid (UA) were used for the modification. GO was produced by using a revised Hummers method. Modification was done at various temperatures during various contact times using various reagent amounts. Characterization of the materials was done by using electron microscopy and spectrophotometric techniques. Characterization studies confirmed the successful reduction of GO by CA. UA was effective for the reduction of GO besides biofunctionalization. Optimum conditions for the modification were determined and graphene-based materials were produced using these conditions. Cytotoxicity tests were confirmed the biocompatibility of the materials. The method offered in this study is very basic and green which does not include using alkaline medium or any additives. Graphene-based materials produced using this method are potential alternatives for the production of biomaterials.