Investigating the Electrical Conductivity of Graphene

Abstract The project investigates the identification of graphene through electroanalysis using results from the work
of Sir Andre Geim. The research uses Geim's technology to extract graphene from graphite and focuses on further
testing of the resulting structure. This method involves fine processing to separate the graphene layers, ensuring
that its unique electrical properties are preserved. Measurement applications include measurements of paper work
and work in order to establish a relationship between these parameters and the presence of graphene. The main
aim is to verify the effectiveness of the Geim method to ensure the electronic properties of graphene. These studies
aim to shed light on cost effective and scalable graphene production methods that can be used in electronics and
nanotechnology. The results from this research could have a significant impact on the industry, which relies on
products with excellent electrical properties and making the graphene process easier and more efficient. Finally,
this research aims to bridge the gap between laboratory experiments and practical applications and contribute to
high-level data studies.

Keywords: Graphene, conductivity, Indefica

Literature Review

Graphene, a single sheet of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, is widely regarded as a
revolutionary material due to its exceptional properties.

According to Cambridge Dictionaries Online, graphene is defined as a material with significant

scientific and industrial applications【1】. The foundational work of Geim and Novoselov, "The
Rise of Graphene," published in Nature Materials, introduced the material’s extraordinary
electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and flexibility, setting the stage for advancements in
electronics and materials science【2】.

Focus on Graphene highlights its high electrical and thermal conductivity, mechanical strength,
and promising applications in fields like electronics, energy storage, and biomedicine【3】. In
industrial contexts, graphene's potential as an electromagnetic shielding material is noted for its
electrical conductivity and radiation absorption capabilities, positioning it as a candidate for
advanced shielding solutions in electronics and telecommunications【4】. The aromaticity of
graphene, rooted in π-electron delocalization, underpins its stability and conductivity, which are
crucial for designing new materials【5】.

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been pivotal in characterizing graphene’s structure,
clarifying its atomic arrangement, and identifying defects through advanced imaging techniques【
6】. Research on graphene's intrinsic diamagnetism under varying field and temperature
conditions provides insights into magnetic sensing and levitation applications【7】. Furthermore,
graphene’s optical transparency, influenced by the fine structure constant, is explored for
applications in transparent conductive films and photonic devices【8】【9】.

The mechanical properties of graphene, including its strength and elasticity, are crucial for
structural materials, composites, and flexible electronics【10】【11】. Surface studies focus on
the adsorption behavior of thin carbon foils, aiding understanding of graphene's surface
characteristics【12】. Historical works like Brodie's atomic weight study of graphite and Debije
and Scherrer’s diffraction patterns laid the groundwork for graphene research【22】【23】.

The development of X-ray crystallography by Friedrich and Hull provided critical insights into
graphite’s atomic structure, furthering the understanding of carbon-based materials【24】【25】
. Kohlschütter and Haenni’s studies on graphitic carbon and graphitic acid advanced early
investigations into carbon allotropes, paving the way for graphene research【26】.

Geim and Novoselov’s Nobel Prize recognition underscores the revolutionary significance of their
work【15】【14】. Their discovery catalyzed market interest in graphene's commercial
production【16】. The IUPAC's standardized graphene definition ensures scientific coherence【

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18】. Future directions emphasize graphene's role in electronics, photonics, and energy storage,
with scalable production methods like silicon carbide synthesis gaining attention【20】【21】.

Comprehensive resources, such as Focus on Graphene, compile critical data for researchers and
engineers, while foundational studies, from X-ray interference phenomena to chemical
investigations of graphitic derivatives, continue to underpin the exploration of graphene's
remarkable properties【3】【17】【24】【26】.

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Procedure for Graphene Extraction and Conductivity
Analysis

Preparation of Substrate
A clean, smooth substrate such as glass slides, silicon wafers, or polymer sheets is prepared to
ensure uniform graphite deposition.

Selection and Application of Graphite

High-quality graphite, such as pencil graphite with minimal impurities, is gently applied onto the
substrate in even strokes to avoid uneven deposition.

Graphene Extraction via Scotch Tape Method

Adhesive tape is firmly pressed onto the graphite-coated substrate and peeled off to extract thin
graphite layers. This process is repeated iteratively to isolate thinner layers, eventually obtaining
graphene.

Inspection and Verification

The tape with extracted graphene is examined under a microscope to verify successful isolation
and identify any defects.

Transfer to Desired Substrate (Optional)

If needed, graphene is transferred onto another substrate using methods like wet or dry transfer
for further analysis or applications.

Preparation for Conductivity Testing

The graphene patches are mounted onto a conductive substrate using adhesive or conducting ink
to establish electrical contact.

Electrical Circuit Assembly and Conductivity Testing

A 2V battery is connected to the graphene sample via leads. The multimeter probes are
positioned across the patch to measure electrical resistance. Multiple readings are taken for
accuracy.

Data Collection and Analysis

Resistance values are recorded and analyzed statistically to ensure consistency. Anomalies are
noted for further investigation.

Characterization and Refinement

Conductivity results are interpreted alongside visual inspection and optional techniques like
Raman spectroscopy. Based on findings, the procedure can be refined to optimize extraction or
investigate specific parameters.

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This process provides insights into graphene’s structural and electrical properties while
identifying areas for improvement in the methodology.

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Result

Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms in a honeycomb lattice, exhibits extraordinary electrical
conductivity (~4000 Wm−1 K−1), surpassing conventional materials like graphite (~600 Wm−1
K−1). This unique property makes graphene promising for applications in electronics and energy
storage.

Top results indicating Graphene;

Patch Number Conductivity (S/m)

1 4528
2 4256
3 4167
4 4392
5 4409
6 4256
7 4333

In this experiment, a 2V battery was used to apply a potential across graphene patches, and
conductivity was measured using a multimeter. However, the results showed no significant
variations in conductivity, likely due to the small size of the monolayer graphene patches produced
via the cello tape method.

Key factors affecting the results include:

Size Limitations: Small patches may not exhibit graphene's intrinsic conductivity due to defects,
impurities, and boundary effects.

Measurement Sensitivity: The battery and multimeter setup may lack the precision to detect subtle
changes at the atomic level.

Contaminants: Adhesive residue or impurities on the graphene surface could introduce resistance,
masking true conductivity.

These findings highlight the need for improved extraction and characterization techniques.
Advanced methods are essential for accurately exploring graphene's electrical properties and
leveraging its potential in practical applications.

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