Polyethyleneimine-functionalized graphene and its layer-by-layer assembly with Prussian blue

The polyethyleneimine (PEI)-functionalized graphene, which showed excellent dispersibility in water, has been simply synthesized in an alkaline solution. The graphene sheets played an important role as connector to assemble the active amino groups in PEI. This composite provided a positive environment for further functionalization. As an example, a [Prussian blue (PB)/PEI–graphene]n multilayer film has been constructed through layer-by-layer complexation method. The resulting [PB/PEI–graphene]n multilayer film demonstrated preferable electrochromic property and excellent electrocatalysis towards H2O2, which showed promising potential application in electrochemical sensing.

► Synthesis of polyethyleneimine functionalized graphene in an alkaline solution. ► [Prussian blue /polyethyleneimine-graphene]n film by layer-by-layer complexation. ► Excellent electrochromic property and good electrocatalysis towards H2O2.