Two-dimensional layered structure-templated synthesis of graphene nanosheets using CoAl-LDH under low carbonization temperature

•Two-dimensional layered structure-templated synthesis was employed.•The SS-intercalated CoAl-LDH was successfully prepared.•Graphene nanosheets formed in two-dimensional layered structure.•The low calcination temperature was ascribed to the Co element as catalytic center.

In this work, graphene nanosheets (GN) have been successfully prepared under lower carbonization temperature by using the layered compounds CoAl-LDH. A series of characterizations such as XRD, FTIR, Raman TEM, SEM, EDX, XPS and UV–vis were used to verify the formation of graphene nanosheets in the layered structure of CoAl-LDH. It can be concluded that the Co element of layered double hydroxide acted as the catalytic centers in the formation of graphene nanosheets.