Multilayered graphene grafted copper wires

Abstract Multilayered graphene is grown on copper (Cu) wires by chemical vapor deposition. Mechanical, chemical, thermal and electrical performances are investigated as a function of growth conditions. The graphene layer which makes a volume of approximately 0.02% of the Cu wire enables a 28–37% improvement on tensile strength and strain-to-failure. The chemical resistance of graphene grafted Cu wires increases by 1.5–3 times in nitric acid, aqua regia, and 1M ammonium persulfate etchants. The electrical resistivity of graphene grafted Cu wires remains almost constant with increasing temperature up to 175 °C, while the resistivity degradation of Cu wires without graphene starts to increase from 70 °C. We demonstrate that graphene can protect the Cu wire from thermal oxidation and chemical etchants and can effectively enhance the mechanical and electrical properties of the Cu wire.