Spectacular Pseudo-Exfoliation of an Exfoliated-Compressed Graphite

Graphite exfoliation is a well-known process in carbon chemistry. An intercalation compound is first synthesized using reactants with strong redox properties. The intercalated graphite is then heated and the exfoliation occurs: a graphite vermicular powder is obtained. When recompressed, this powder gives carbon sheets such as Papyex or Flexigraf flexible graphites. These commercially available materials can be impregnated with an aluminum trichloride/diethylether solution whose oxidation by atmospheric oxygen, initiated by an open flame, reproduces the exfoliation phenomenon. This kind of reaction has been called pseudo-exfoliation of carbonaceous material. This demonstration spectacularly illustrates the layered nature of graphite.Find this demonstration and others in the DigiDemos area of the JCE Digital Library.