Simple and scalable route for the ‘bottom-up’ synthesis of few-layer graphene platelets and thin films

Graphene has generated much interest owing to its exceptional electronic properties and high mechanical strength. This has enabled new types of electronic devices and composite materials to be envisaged. The main problem is the availability of the material and the difficulties associated with its synthesis. Here we have used a simple, convenient and scalable chemical vapour deposition method involving sodium ethoxide in ethanol to produce few-layer graphene sheets or platelets. The process has the advantage that it can be used to grow graphene films on non-metal containing substrates such as silicon wafer and quartz glass and that all non-carbon by-products are soluble in water.