Solutions of Graphene Quantum Dots Derived from Coal

ID# 2024-5798
Optical and morphological properties of coal derived GQDs.

Technology Summary

The inventors developed an efficient intercalation assisted dispersion for solubilizing coal for production, purification of GQDs and formation of advanced composites containing GQDs. In a typical patented process, coal powder is reacted with alkali metal to form an alkali metal-intercalated coal product. The alkali metal-intercalated coal is then dissolved in an organic solvent to form a solution of GQDs. The GQDs are then purified using a mild centrifugation process. This GQD solution is then used to form GQD films, and advanced composites for different applications. After purification, the solution can be concentrated using a precipitation and evaporation process to obtain GQD powder. The GQDs can be redispersed in different low boiling point organic solvents and in water for storage and for further processing in different applications.

Application & Market Utility

Colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are highly promising for use in solar cells, light-emitting diodes, bioimaging, electronic displays, and other optoelectronic devices, due to their unique size-dependent electro-optical properties. Despite their potential, the high market cost of inorganic QDs, > $1000 per gram, has slowed their industrial adoption. Additionally, their application development has been impeded by their high toxicity. As a cost-effective alternative, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have recently gained attention as a new class of materials.

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