At the cutting edge : structural analysis and chemical modification of the edges of mechanically cleaved graphene nanoribbons : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Nanoscience at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand

Abstract

The first decade of the new carbon nanomaterial graphene has been a time of great discovery and excitement as the exceptional properties of this material were uncovered and its promise for numerous applications realised. The unique properties of graphene, including its exceptional electronic structure, are now well-established, and investigations into how these properties can be manipulated and exploited are rapidly taking off. This research contributes to the emerging field by exploring the structure and chemistry of the edges of mechanically cleaved graphene nanoribbons; groundwork for the future development of edge-modified nanoribbons that could be used to form selfassembled graphene nanoribbon composite structures with potential for devices in solar energy conversion. For this purpose, a Raman microscope was built that enabled for various aspects of the structure of graphene nanoribbons to be probed, in particular the geometry and smoothness of the edges, which have important implications for the specific reactivity of the edge carbon atoms. Chemical approaches for the specific functionalisation of the edges of the nanoribbons were developed, involving reactions tailored to the reactive groups present at the edges, and these were found to be highly successful and selective.