Edge functionalization of Graphene Nano-Plates: multi-step carboxylation and Friedel-Crafts reaction

Graphene is a material of recent discovery that shows excellent properties even if its preparation is rather difficult and complex. Graphene Nano-Plates (GNPs), made by few tenths of graphene layers, have similar properties but their preaparation is easier. Nevertheless, their employment in the field of nanocomposite materials is not widely applied due to the difficulty to disperse their in solvent or polymeric matrix. The purpose of this work is the selective functionalization of the edges of the GNP, in order to preserve the internal aromatic structure of the plans, preserving the peculiar physical-chemical properties of the graphene materials. In this regard, two synthetic routes have been applied: bromination, lithiation and subsequent carboxylation; Friedel-Crafts reaction, using succinic anhydride as an acylating agent.