Synthesis and characterization of graphene nanocomposites for non-linear optical applications

Graphene shows remarkable non-linear optical behavior. Above a particular incident light intensity threshold, transmission is attenuated. Unfortunately, capitalizing on the unique properties of graphene can be a challenge because the material itself is hard to handle, unless it is integrated with other materials. The purpose of this work is to develop graphene-based nano-composites for non-linear optical applications. Few and single layer graphene flakes were synthesized through liquid phase exfoliation of graphite in 1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidinon (NMP), and characterized via Raman and transmission electron microscopy. Synthesis parameters for stable, high quality graphene suspensions were identified and graphene was integrated into nano-composites prepared via sol-gel methods. In addition to structural and chemical characterization, I-scan measurements revealed the composites demonstrated non-linear optical behavior with a cut-off frequency tunable with few layer graphene concentration in the composite. [Display omitted] •High quality graphene was fabricated via liquid phase exfoliation and incorporated into sol-gel composites•Non-linear behavior is observed up to a certain graphene weight percent•Graphene can remain dispersed in a host matrix when it is present in small amounts•Non-linear behavior of graphene nanocomposites can be adjusted by varying graphene concentration