Nanocarbon hybrids

Fig. 5.1 Schematic representation of templated synthesis of nanocarbon hybrids with (a) nanocarbon as template and (b) nanocarbon as hybridizing component.

In general, the various synthesis strategies for nanocarbon hybrids can be categorized as ex situ and in situ techniques [3]. The ex situ ( building block ) approach involves the separate synthesis of the two components prior to their hybridization. One can rely on a plethora of scientific work to ensure good control of the component s dimensions (i.e. size, number of layers), morphology (i.e. spherical nanoparticles, nanowires) and functionalization. The components are then hybridized through covalent, noncovalent or electrostatic interactions. In contrast, the in situ approach is a one-step process that involves the synthesis of one of the components in the pres-... 

The simultaneous reduction of both GO and metal precursor enables a simple one-step synthetic route toward nanocarbon hybrids based on electrostatic interactions with, adversely, reduced control of the level of GO reduction. This is not a significant problem in hybrid formation but it will significantly affect further application of the hybrid, particularly in electronic applications. 

Figure 5.15 depicts the general procedure of electrochemical nanocarbon hybrid formation which involves applying a potential between a nanocarbon covered... 

Polymer-nanocarbon hybrids are also possible via electrochemical depositions, particularly with conducting polymers [218]. Similar to the inorganic materials de-... 

Tab. 5.1 Comparison of nanocarbon hybridization strategies discussed within this chapter.

This chapter demonstrates the huge variety of synthesis techniques available for the preparation of nanocarbon hybrids, which can be categorized into ex situ and in situ approaches. 

As subsequent chapters will document, the type, structure and quality of the nanocarbon have a considerable impact on the final performance of the nanocarbon hybrid. Currently, most publications on the synthesis of nanocarbon hybrids focus on GO, which is both easy to prepare and simple to hybridize. However, the mechanical and electrical properties of GO (and also RGO) are often inferior to their pristine counterparts and in fact closer to those of activated carbon. Hence, we recommend always synthesizing and comparing various types of nanocarbons with different features and functionalizations. 

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