Recent advances in one-pot functionalization of graphene using electrochemical exfoliation of graphite: A review study

Abstract Electrochemical exfoliation of graphite is a simple, cost-effective, and environment-friendly method for the large-scale production of high-quality graphene. Recently, the production of the functionalized graphene using the electrochemical exfoliation of graphene has attracted great attention. Also, the synthesis of graphene /nanoparticles is a new research topic for researches owing to their unique properties. To date, extensive works have been performed for the functionalization of graphene. However, the proposed methods are mainly expensive and time-consuming. So, the development of a simple method for the large-scale production of functionalized graphene is necessary. Reviewing the recent studies indicates that the graphene/ nanoparticle composites can be synthesized using the one-step electrochemical exfoliation of graphite. Therefore, in this study, it is tried to review the recent papers on the one-step electrochemical method for the exfoliation and functionalization of graphite. Different approaches have been employed for the in-situ exfoliation and functionalization by the electrochemical route. In this review study, the details of electrochemical processes (such as type of graphite, electrolyte, voltage, etc.), preparation of electrodes, and proposed mechanisms for one-step exfoliation and functionalization of graphite are reviewed.