Solution processing of graphite for thin films

Various grades of graphene-containing nanopowders were assessed analytically through Thermogravimetric Analysis and Raman Spectroscopy. Three-dimensional freestanding graphene foam was also subjected to the same analysis with the desired goal of quantifying the purity and content of the various graphene materials. The NIST guide for analyzing purity of carbon nanotube samples applies well to the same analysis of graphene. Samples and purified samples were tested in a number of solvents in order to identify the most stable dispersions. Purified powders were shown to be inferior to the "as received" 3D graphene foam as quantified through the above analytical methods. Graphene foams are reported here to represent a highly pure form of graphene that may be dispersed in solution in order to form thin films that retain the same quantifiable qualities as the solid starting material.