GRAPHENE PRODUCTION IN ETHANOL MEDIUM USING ULTRASOUND

Abstract

Graphene is one of the most promising carbon nanomaterials due to its exceptional electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Among various synthesis techniques, liquid-phase exfoliation has attracted considerable attention because of its simplicity, low cost, and suitability for large-scale production. In this study, graphene was produced by ultrasonic exfoliation of graphite powder dispersed in ethanol. The suspension was subjected to ultrasonic irradiation at a frequency of 40 kHz, resulting in the formation of a stable graphene dispersion. The obtained material was characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The spectrum exhibited absorption maxima at 218 nm and 263 nm. The absorption band at 218 nm was attributed to π→π* electronic transitions of sp²-hybridized carbon atoms, while the broad peak at 263 nm indicated the formation of few-layer graphene or graphene-like carbon nanostructures. The absence of a characteristic absorption peak near 300 nm suggested a low degree of oxidation and preservation of the graphitic structure during the exfoliation process. The results demonstrate that ultrasonic treatment in ethanol provides an environmentally friendly and effective route for the partial exfoliation of graphite and the production of graphene-like nanomaterials.