A facile and efficient approach to decoration of graphene nanosheets with gold nanoparticles

► We have demonstrated a simple and effective approach to the decoration of AuNPs on GNs by using PDDA as eco-friendly reducing agent and stabilizer for the first time. ► A uniform distribution of AuNPs on the surface of GNs without agglomerates can be obtained through this route. ► AuNPs@GNs exhibits excellent electrochemical activity and good electrocatalytic activity toward AA.