Sustainable Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene Nanosheets from Coconut Husk: A Green Approach for Advanced Materials

Abstract

Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon material with exceptional mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, has attracted significant interest for advanced material applications. Conventional production methods often rely on hazardous chemicals and non-renewable resources, creating a need for more sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches. This study explores the environmentally friendly synthesis and characterization of graphene derived from coconut husk waste. This approach contributes to the dual goals of waste valorization and sustainable material development by employing eco-friendly methodologies for graphene production, minimizing the environmental impact compared to traditional methods. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis confirms the successful oxidation of graphite oxide into individual graphene oxide (GO) sheets with a layered and crumpled morphology, suggesting high surface area and self-assembly behavior, both crucial properties for various applications. Raman spectroscopy revealed two dominant peaks in the synthesized GO at 1378.89 cm⁻¹ and 1595.89 cm⁻¹, corresponding to the D and G bands, respectively, indicating the presence of both ordered sp² carbon and oxygen-induced defects. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis unveiled the crystalline nature of the GO sample, with a prominent peak at 2θ = 10.13° corresponding to the (001) plane, characteristic of oxygen functional groups attached to the GO surface. This research demonstrates the successful conversion of coconut husk waste into high-quality graphene via a sustainable approach and emphasizes the potential for responsible production of advanced materials with diverse applications.