Applications of Graphene in Different Fields

College of Engineering, Northeastern University, 02115 Boston, USA

^* Corresponding author: luan.d@northeastern.edu

Abstract

Graphene is the single layer of carbon atoms, which shows extraordinary electrical, mechanical, thermal, and optical capabilities. This research summarizes recent advances in applying graphene for energy storage, environmental engineering, and electronic devices. The two common synthetization approaches of graphene, top-down and bottom-up are illustrated. Graphene enhances lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors as electrode materials due to its excellent physical and chemical properties such as high surface area and conductivity. The preparation methods of the graphene used in electrodes are shared. It removes both inorganic and organic pollutants from water through adsorption. As a printed 3D scaffold, graphene effectively absorbs gaseous pollutants. Graphene nanostructures improve the sensitivity of the biosensors: fluorescence sensors, electrochemical sensors, the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors, the surface enhanced Raman scattering sensors. Highly conducting graphene paper can replace metals in flexible antennas. Graphene-metal nanocomposites transfer heat efficiently and cool electronics when dispersed in fluids. The multifunctionality and sustainability of graphene materials hold promise for nextgeneration technologies.