Preparation of few-layer graphene nanosheets by radio-frequency induction thermal plasma

Graphene nanosheets (GNs) are successfully deposited via a radio frequency (RF) induction thermal plasma pyrolysis process using methane as the precursor. Products are characterized by X-ray powder diffractometer (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Raman spectroscopy and BET measurements. The results illustrate that those few-layer GNs with the number of layer at about 5 and the size at 200–500 nm are deposited. The H2 atmosphere in the RF induction thermal plasma is the key factor to fabricate the few-layer GNs. The direct conversion of CH4 to few-layer GNs through RF thermal plasma process suggests that the technique is simple, easy to operate, and is suitable for mass production of few-layer GNs in a continuous and scalable process.