Turbostratic graphene formation by flash joule heating: A comprehensive characterization study

Graphene is a technologically important two-dimensional carbon material due to its exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and potential for energy storage applications. However, conventional graphene synthesis methods often encounter challenges related to scalability, structural control, and environmental sustainability. Flash Joule Heating (FJH) provides an alternative approach that enables high-temperature conversion of carbon-based materials through a simplified process. In this study, turbostratic graphene was synthesized from a mixture of commercial graphite and acetylene black (AB) using FJH method. Raman spectroscopy revealed an increased intensity ratio of the D to G band ID/IG indicating a higher density of structural defects, while the intensity ratio of the 2D to G band ID/IG confirmed the presence of few-layer graphene. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed rotational disorder of graphene layers, characteristic of turbostratic stacking. While Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images revealed the transformation of compact graphite particles into fractured and thinner structures. The addition of AB increased defect density and influenced the structural and electrical-related properties of the resulting material. These results demonstrate that FJH enables the direct conversion of commercial graphite into turbostratic graphene through an efficient and environmentally sustainable route with promising potential for energy storage applications.