Graphene - Calculation of Specific Surface Area

Abstract

Purpose: Graphene is a wonder material with high potential for application in energy storage supercapacitors owing to its extremely high surface area. Here, a simple and detailed description of calculation of specific surface area of graphene is given in a tutorial like format. From geometric considerations and known values of interatomic distances, it is shown that we can estimate the theoretical surface area of graphene sheets to be ~2630 m²g^-1. Using this approach, teachers will be able to educate their students in various fields where surface area is one of the important factors.

Approach/Methodology: Calculation of theoretical maximum specific surface area of graphene using the data like area of a regular hexagon, C-C bond length within the layers in graphene and relative average atomic mass of carbon.

Findings/Result: From geometric considerations and known value of interatomic distance in graphite, it is possible to show by calculations that the theoretical surface area of graphene sheets is ~ 2630 m²g^-1.

Originality/Value: It is a useful exercise for understanding the simple principles behind such calculations and to appreciate its usefulness in practical applications.

Paper type: Review based Analysis.