Synthesis, characterization and optical property of graphene oxide films

Graphene oxide (GO) sheets were used to build up films via layer-by-layer electrostatic self-assembly technique. GO sheets and poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) alternately deposited on the quartz substrate during the self-assembly process. To make the films electrically active, reduction treatment involving the thermal annealing in Ar/H2 atmosphere at 600 °C was conducted. The microstructure and morphology of the obtained films were investigated by FT-IR, TEM, XPS and SEM. The optical property was examined by UV-vis instrument at room temperature. Results show that the surfaces of the obtained films are uniform. Films with 5 and 10 assembly cycles have transmittances of 74 and 49%, respectively, at a wavelength of 500 nm. To improve the optical and electrical property, Ag particles was decorated into the film and the transmittance at 500 nm was increased to 82% with 5 assembly cycles, while the surface resistance was about 95 kΩ □−1, much lower than that of pure film, 430 kΩ □−1.

► Graphene film with controllable thickness and optical property was fabricated. ► Electrically conductive Ag particles were decorated onto the films. ► Transmittance of the film was improved by the decoration of Ag particles.