Is Graphene Hydrophobic or Hydrophilic?

Contrary to earlier beliefs, single-layer (one atom thick) graphene exhibits a strong attraction to water molecules due to its unique atomic structure. However, as more layers are stacked, the interaction weakens, and the material becomes more like bulk graphite, repelling water.

What Is Graphene?

Graphene is a form of carbon made up of carbon atoms that form a single layer of aromatic rings (see Figure 1).[i] Other configurations of carbon atoms form graphite, coal, carbon nanotubes, fullerenes and diamonds.

Graphene's extraordinary properties, such as its strength, directional electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity, make it a groundbreaking material for various applications.

The Unusual Relationship Between Graphene and Water

It has been a widely held belief that graphene is hydrophobic because graphite is hydrophobic.

This belief was challenged when researchers at the National Physics Laboratory in the UK found that the hydrophobic nature of the material is highly thickness-dependent, with monolayer graphene being hydrophilic.[ii]  

Materials scientists in the Netherlands furthered this study by measuring the contact angle of water on graphene and several other materials.  They found that with water, the graphene surface was smooth and clean, meaning the graphene material was indeed hydrophilic.[iii]  

This finding will have a major impact on the use of graphene in water-based applications.  It is worth mentioning that graphene oxide is more commonly used in water dispersions.  

The Hydrophobicity of Graphene

While monolayer graphene is hydrophilic, multilayer graphene and graphene oxide exhibit hydrophobic properties. The hydrophobicity of graphene can be influenced by the number of layers and the presence of functional groups on its surface. This characteristic makes graphene versatile for applications that require specific water interaction characteristics.

Potential Applications of Graphene as a Hydrophilic Material

As a hydrophilic material, graphene's potential applications are expansive and promising. Its ability to interact with water molecules could make it ideal for use in advanced water purification systems, where it would help in the selective removal of contaminants. 

Graphene's hydrophilic property enhances its potential usability in biosensing applications. Its interaction with water appears to make it suitable for biosensors and novel drug delivery systems. Graphene can also be potentially applied to surfaces such as glass to prevent fogging [iv].

Why Trust MSE Supplies for Your Graphene Needs?

At MSE Supplies, we understand the critical role high-quality materials play in scientific and technological advancements. Here is why you can trust us as your reliable supplier of graphene and related materials:

• Expertise in material science: Our team comprises PhD-level scientists and engineers with extensive backgrounds in material science.
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Contact Us Today for all Your Graphene Material Needs

MSE Supplies, LLC offers a comprehensive range of graphene materials, including monolayer graphene film on various substrates, monolayer graphene oxide in water dispersions and monolayer graphene film on your custom substrates. Explore our online store for top-tier graphene products that meet your specific needs, or email us directly if you have any questions.

References

[i] Picture taken from Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphene

[ii] Martin Munz, Cristina E. Giusca, Rachael L. Myers-Ward, D. Kurt Gaskill, and Olga Kazakova ACS Nano 2015 9 (8), 8401-8411 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b03220

[iii] Belyaeva, L. A., van Deursen, P. M. G., Barbetsea, K. I., Schneider, G. F., Adv. Mater. 2018, 30, 1703274. https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201703274

[iv] National Physical Laboratory, 2015, https://phys.org/news/2015-08-graphene-hydrophobic-hydrophilic.html