Graphene-oxide monolayers at the air-water interface

Graphene-oxide is a novel material with tremendous applications to coatings and electronics. We utilize investigations of self-assembled GO monolayers at the air-water interface as the basis for experimental investigations in an undergraduate laboratory experience partnered with Augsburg University’s sophomore level Modern Physics course. A Langmuir trough with dual tensiometers oriented parallel and perpendicular to the barrier compression is used to measure the anisotropic forces during the compression and expansion of the monolayer. Investigations of size distribution and pH modulation of the aqueous subphase are presented here. Scanning electron microscopy of Langmuir-Blodgett deposited GO films provides a complementary look at GO morphology. Finally, we present the feasibility of GO studies at liquid-liquid interfaces.