Highly efficient graphene-based ternary composite catalyst with polydopamine layer and copper nanoparticles

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46 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

A synergistically integrated graphene-based ternary composite (rG-Cu) consisting of uniform natural polydopamine (Pdop)-functionalized graphene sheets (Dop-rG) and well-dispersed Cu nanoparticles (NPs) has been developed. By a one-step reduction and modification of graphene oxide with dopamine, water-dispersible Dop-rG was first prepared. Cu NPs were then incorporated homogeneously onto Dop-rG by a simple solution route leading to activated rG-Cu, which showed an ultrahigh catalytic activity and good reusability for catalytic reductions of different types of dyes, including methylene blue and azo-based acid and reactive dyes. It took only 30â s for complete reduction of methylene blue. In addition to the main action of the catalytically active component of the well-dispersed Cu NPs, the uniform adhesive Pdop layer and graphene base with large surface area and superior electron-transfer capacity are also believed to assist synergistically the catalytic reduction. The work has opened up a new avenue for synthesis of a graphene-based ternary composite with extraordinary catalytic activity for practical applications in addressing environmental protection issues. To purify dye pollutants: A uniform adhesive polydopamine layer, well-dispersed Cu nanoparticles, and graphene base with huge surface area and superior electron-transfer capacity (see figure) integrate synergistically into a graphene-based ternary composite catalyst with an ultrahigh catalytic activity towards reduction of dye pollutants.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1483-1490
Number of pages8
JournalChemPlusChem
Volume78
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2013

Keywords

  • catalytic activity
  • dopamines
  • graphene
  • nanoparticles
  • organic-inorganic hybrid composites

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry(all)

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