In-Situ Electrochemical Functionalization of Reduced Graphene Oxide: Positive Lead Acid Case

Reduced graphene and graphene oxide sheets have been in-situ functionalized during electrochemical reactions in lead acid cathode system. This research investigated the comparative differences in surface chemistry of reduced graphene and graphene oxide sheets, and their influence on electrochemical activity during the charge and discharge reactions at lead acid system. The reduction of graphene oxide sheets, brought about by the activity of OH- and H+ activity on graphene sheets within the gel zone. The grafting of HSO4- and PbO(OH)+ ions from PbO...OH- gel zone intermediate complex, via covalent and non-covalent means, is determined to facilitate the ionic reactions at interphase zone of the positive active material.