Extraction of mono to few layers of graphene through micromechanical exfoliation of bulk graphite.

Graphite is an allotrope of carbon that occurs naturally. The structure is comprised of multiple layers of carbon atoms that are organized in a hexagonal lattice and are interconnected by relatively weak van der Waals forces. Graphite exhibits favorable electrical conductivity characteristics, demonstrating enhanced efficiency in conducting electricity along its layers as opposed to that perpendicular to the layers. This restriction influences the efficiency of the device within certain electrical and electronic applications. To address these challenges, a range of exfoliation techniques have been employed to achieve the production of graphene with a limited number of layers, typically ranging from single to a few layers. In this study, a straightforward and cost-effective method known as Scotch-Tape Microexfoliation was employed to produce graphene successfully. Optical images were captured to document various iterations of exfoliation. Notably, an increase in the number of iterations yielded a corresponding increase in film transparency, indicating the formation of a monolayer of graphene. Furthermore, the presence of defects in graphene was identified through the observation of the peak corresponding to the D-band in Raman spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]