Mechanochemistry of graphene: Tuning ion absorption on graphene via strain

The ultra-high specific surface area of graphene endows this two-dimensional material with an excellent capacity of ion absorption. Here we show that the ion absorption properties of graphene can be tailored via mechanical deformation. By using density function theory (DFT) analysis, we found that strain could enhance the ion absorption capacity of graphene. Our results provide perspective for the development of graphene-based electrochemical devices, such as stress difference battery and mechanochemistry sensors with graphene electrodes.