Synthesis of Cu/Gr Nano-composites by Electrodeposition Route

Abstract

In this study, graphene nano-sheets synthesized by electrochemical exfoliation method using HNO3 electrolyte. The XRD analysis of (001) and (002) plane confirms the graphene crystal structure. TEM analysis confirms the semitransparent like layer structure and HRTEM confirms the layer structure of 7-10 layers stacked of graphene. SAED pattern gives the hexagonal ring structure of carbon particles. The synthesized graphene particles used to fabricate Cu-Gr nano composite. Cu-Gr nano-composite were electrodeposited at a temperature of 15°C during ultrasonic stirring condition. The graphene particles distributed uniformly in copper matrix in the presence of ultra sound. The EDS analysis confirms the presence of Cu-Gr nano-composite and X-Ray elemental mapping confirms the uniform distribution of graphene particles in Cu-Gr nano-composite. The 0.5g/l Cu-Gr nano-composite shows higher hardness of 2109 MPa as compared to 1618 MPa of copper thin film.