Synthesis of Graphene Foam via Chemical Vapor Deposition

Graphene, a material made up of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice has garnered lots of attention due to its extraordinary mechanical and electrical properties in recent years. Graphene has been investigated for many uses due to its high thermal conductivity, strength, flexibility, and electron mobility. In our research, we focus on the synthesis and development of graphene foam, using a method called chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The synthesis process results in a three dimensional, foam-like material that allows for rapid movement of electron carriers through its interconnected network, while allowing for a lightweight and flexible material. In this study, we develop a methodology for the synthesis of graphene foam which produces consistent results using the CVD process. We examine the effects of the precursor – methane- by varying the duration and concentration, and substrate - nickel foam on the establishment of a procedure that consistently yields high quality graphene foam. The quality of the graphene foam has been analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively via optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Future plans for this graphene foam include the integration of carbon nanotubes, with an overall goal of developing flexible sensors