THREE-DIMENSIONAL (3D) PRINTING OF GRAPHENE MATERIALS

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing of graphene materials and methods and apparatuses for making same. In some embodiments, combined metal powder and carbon growth sources (such as powder Ni and sucrose) are utilized in the 3D printing process. In other embodiments, metal powders with binders (such as powder Ni and a polymer bases binder) are utilized in the 3D printing process. The metal in the resulting 3D printed composite material can then be etched or otherwise removed yielding the 3D printed graphene materials.

Claims

1. A method of making a 3D graphene material comprising: (a) mixing a metal powder and a carbon source to form a metal and carbon source mixture, wherein (i) the carbon source is not graphene, graphene oxide, or a graphene derivative, and (ii) at least some of the metal powder is covered by the carbon source; (b) utilizing a 3D printing process to fuse the metal powder in the metal and carbon source mixture into a specific structure; (c) converting the carbon source in the metal and carbon source mixture into graphene sheets that cover the metal powder to form a graphene and metal scaffold; and (d) removing the metal from the graphene and metal scaffold to form the 3D graphene material.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of utilizing the printing process to fuse the metal powder into the specific structure is performed while performing the step of converting the carbon source into the graphene sheets that cover the metal powder.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein a laser is utilized to convert the carbon source into the graphene sheets that cover the metal powder.

4-5. (canceled)

6. The method of claim 3, wherein the laser is set at a scanning speed of at least about 1000 mm/min.

7. The method of claim 3, wherein the laser is set at a power of at least 4 W.

8-9. (canceled)

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the metal powder comprises a metal is selected from a group consisting of Ni, Cu, NiCu alloys, Ru, Ag, Fe, Co, Al, and combinations and alloys thereof.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the metal powder comprise Ni.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the metal powder has an average particle size in the range between about 100 nm and about 1 cm.

13-14. (canceled)

15. The method of claim 1, wherein the carbon source comprises a material selected from a group consisting of sucrose, polymethyl methacrylate, glucose, poly(phenylene sulfide), carbohydrates, poly(acrylonitrile), polysaccharides, polyimide, and combinations thereof.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein the carbon source comprises sucrose.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein weight ratio of the metal powder to the carbon source is between about 1:1 and 20:1.

18. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material is selected from a group consisting of in-situ N-doped graphene foams, carbon nanotube/graphene composites, carbon fibers, carbon nanotube fibers, carbon nanoonions/graphene composites, phosphorene foams, 3D MX and/or MX.sub.2 foams, and combinations thereof, wherein (a) M is selected from a group consisting of Mo, W, Bi, Hf, Ga, Ge, Ta, Sn, Zn, Cd, Pb, B, Nb, Zr, and combinations thereof, and (b) X is selected from a group consisting of S, N, Se, P, and combinations thereof.

19. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material has a porosity of at least 98%.

20. (canceled)

21. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material is a graphene foam.

22. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material has an average pore diameter in the range between 1 nm and about 1 cm.

23-24. (canceled)

25. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material comprises a surface area ranging from about 50 m.sup.2/g to about 2,500 m.sup.2/g.

26. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material has an electrical conductivity ranging from about 6.9 S/cm and about 10.5 D/cm.

27. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material has a mechanical robustness that is at least about 11 kPa storage modulus.

28. The method of claim 1, wherein the 3D graphene material has a damping capacity of at least 0.05.

29. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of removing the metal to form the 3D graphene material comprises etching away the metal.

30-32. (canceled)

33. The method of claim 1, wherein the metal powder is at room temperature and the metal powder and the carbon source are converted into graphene sheets that cover the metal powder without preheating.

34. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of converting the carbon source into graphene sheets that cover the metal powder is performed in air.

35. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of converting the carbon source into graphene sheets that cover the metal powder is performed in an atmosphere of H.sub.2, Ar, or both.

36. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of converting the carbon source into graphene sheets that cover the metal powder further comprises a step of heat treatment.

37-38. (canceled)

39. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of mixing the metal powder and the carbon source to form the metal and carbon source mixture comprises mixing the metal powder and the carbon source in water, and then removing the water to form the metal and carbon source mixture.

40. The method of claim 1, wherein (a) the carbon source is an organic polymer, and (b) the step of mixing the metal powder and the carbon source to form the metal and carbon source mixture comprises mixing the metal powder and the carbon source in a solvent, and then removing the solvent to form the metal and carbon source mixture.

41. The method of claim 1 further comprising incorporating the 3D graphene material into a device.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the device is selected from is a group consisting of electrodes, battery electrodes, capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, lithium batteries, lithium ion batteries, photovoltaic devices, photovoltaic cells, transistors, current collectors, fuel cell devices, water desalination devices, capacitive deionization devices, water-splitting devices, water-oil separation devices, water/gas purification devices, sensors, mechanical dampening devices, cell scaffolds for artificial wood, scaffolds for growth of bone or animal/human tissue in vivo or in vitro, scaffolds for neuronal growth in vitro or in vivo, and spinal cord regeneration scaffolds.

43. The method of claim 1 further comprising incorporating the 3D graphene material into an electrode.

44. The method of claim 43 further comprising incorporating the electrode into a device that is selected from a group consisting of capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, lithium batteries, lithium ion batteries, photovoltaic devices, photovoltaic cells, transistors, current collectors, fuel cell devices, water desalination devices, capacitive deionization devices, water-splitting devices, water-oil separation devices, water/gas purification devices, sensors, and mechanical dampening devices.

45-121. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0140] FIG. 1A is a schematic of the synthesis process of LIG from PI.

[0141] FIG. 1B is an SEM image of LIG patterned into an owl shape (scale bar, 1 mm). The bright contrast corresponds to LIG surrounded by the darker-colored insulating PI substrates.

[0142] FIG. 1C is a magnified portion 101 of the SEM image of the LIG film in FIG. 1B (scale bar, 10 m). The inset is the corresponding higher magnification SEM image (scale bar, 1 m).

[0143] FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional SEM image of the LIG film on the PI substrate (scale bar, 20 m). The inset is an SEM image showing the porous morphology of LIG (scale bar, 1 m).

[0144] FIG. 1E is a representative Raman spectrum of a LIG film and the starting PI film.

[0145] FIG. 1F is an XRD of powdered LIG scraped from the PI film. FIGS. 1A-1F are, respectively, reproductions of FIGS. 2A-2F of the Tour '060 PCT Application.

[0146] FIG. 2A is a flowchart showing a method to form a 3D graphene material involving a combined metal and carbon growth source.

[0147] FIG. 2B is a schematic of in situ synthesis of a graphene foam using a 3D printing process.

[0148] FIG. 2C are photographs of 3D printed graphene foam before and after dissolving Ni. The scale bars are 5 mm.

[0149] FIG. 3 is a schematic of powder metallurgy-chemical method to prepare 3D graphene foam. FIG. 3 is a reproduction of FIG. 2 of the Tour '815 PCT Application.

[0150] FIG. 4A is a schematic of powder metallurgy-chemical method to prepare 3D rebar graphene foam.

[0151] FIG. 4B is a schematic of changing the shape of the pellet to prepare 3D rebar GF in screw shape.

[0152] FIG. 4C is a photograph of all-carbon 3D rebar-18 graphene foam screw. FIGS. 4A-4C are, respectively, reproductions of FIGS. 11A-11C of the Tour '815 PCT Application.

[0153] FIGS. 5A-5C are SEM images of graphene grown by laser using Ni/sucrose precursor.

[0154] FIG. 5D is the Raman spectra of graphene grown by laser using Ni/sucrose precursor.

[0155] FIG. 6 is a schematic of the synthesis of 3D printed Ni/graphene discs.

[0156] FIG. 7 is the Raman spectra of 3D printed Ni/graphene discs using 10, 20, 50, and 100% of power.

[0157] FIG. 8A is a schematic for a powder-bed system that can be used in embodiments of the present invention.

[0158] FIG. 8B is an illustration of a custom powder handing module that can be used in embodiments of the present invention.

[0159] FIG. 8C is a photograph of an assembled powder handling module illustrated in FIG. 8B.

[0160] FIG. 8D is a photograph of a gear 808 that was made after the powder module shown in FIG. 8C was mounted to a laser cutter. Gear 808 was not made by an embodiment of the present invention, but rather via selective laser sintering. FIGS. 8A-8D are, respectively, reproductions of FIGS. 1A-1D of Kinstlinger 2016.

[0161] FIGS. 9A-9B are photographs of a power bed system utilized for embodiments of the present invention.

[0162] FIG. 9C is an illustration of the powder bed system in FIGS. 9A-9B.

[0163] FIG. 10 is the Raman spectra of laser-irradiated Ni/sucrose powders with different laser scanning speeds.

[0164] FIGS. 11A-11B are, respectively, an SEM image and the Raman spectra of a laser-irradiated Ni/sucrose powder with a laser setting of 2,000 mm/min, 20% power of a 20 W CO.sub.2 laser.

[0165] FIGS. 11C-11D are, respectively, an SEM image and the Raman spectra of a laser-irradiated Ni/sucrose powder with a laser setting of 2,000 mm/min, 50% power of a 20 W CO.sub.2 laser.

[0166] FIGS. 11E-11F are, respectively, an SEM image and the Raman spectra of a laser-irradiated Ni/sucrose powder with a laser setting of 2,000 mm/min, 100% power of a 20 W CO.sub.2 laser.

[0167] FIG. 12 is an ATR-IR spectra of Ni powder, sucrose, and Ni/sucrose hybrid powder.

[0168] FIG. 13A is a flowchart showing a method to form a 3D graphene material involving a metal powder with a binder.

[0169] FIG. 13B is a schematic of the preparation of 3D graphene material from 3D printed metal/binder object.

[0170] FIG. 14 is a photograph of as-printed 3D Ni/binder objects. (70% saturation was used for the 3D printing).

[0171] FIGS. 15A-15B are SEM images for the 3D printed Ni/binder objects with FIG. 15A being the inside structure of the objects and FIG. 15B being the outside surface of the objects. (70% saturation was used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects).

[0172] FIGS. 15C-15D are Raman characterizations for the 3D printed Ni/binder objects shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, respectively.

[0173] FIGS. 16A-16B are SEM images for as-grown 3D Ni/graphene objects after CVD treatments with FIG. 16A being the inside structure of the objects and FIG. 16B being the outside surface of the objects. (70% saturation is used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects before the CVD treatments).

[0174] FIGS. 16C-16D are Raman characterizations for the 3D printed Ni/binder objects shown in FIGS. 16A-16B, respectively.

[0175] FIGS. 17A-17B are SEM images for as-grown 3D Ni/graphene objects after CVD treatments with FIG. 17A being the inside structure of the objects and FIG. 17B being the outside surface of the objects. (105% saturation is used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects prior to the CVD treatments).

[0176] FIGS. 17C-17D are Raman characterizations for the 3D printed Ni/binder objects shown in FIGS. 17A-17B, respectively.

[0177] FIGS. 18A-18B are photographs of free-standing 3D graphene foam during purification. For FIG. 18A, 70% saturation is used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects prior to the CVD treatments. For FIG. 18B, 105% saturation is used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects prior to the CVD treatments.

[0178] FIGS. 18C-18D are photographs of free-standing 3D graphene foam of FIGS. 18A-18B, respectively, after CPD drying. The objects of FIGS. 18C-18D were intact after CPD drying, but were cut into two pieces before the photographs were taken.

[0179] FIGS. 19A-19B are SEM images for 3D graphene foam after CPD drying with FIG. 19A being the inside structure of the objects and FIG. 19B being the outside surface of the objects. (70% saturation is used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects prior to the CVD treatments).

[0180] FIGS. 19C-19D are Raman characterizations for the 3D graphene foam after CPD drying shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, respectively.

[0181] FIGS. 20A-20B are SEM images for 3D graphene foam after CPD drying with FIG. 20A being the inside structure of the objects and FIG. 20B being the outside surface of the objects. (105% saturation is used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects prior to the CVD treatments).

[0182] FIGS. 20C-20D are Raman characterizations for the 3D graphene foam after CPD drying shown in FIGS. 20A-20B, respectively.

[0183] FIGS. 21A-21H are SEM images of 3D printed graphene foams with a Ni scaffold prepared using 100P and (FIGS. 21A-21B) 5S, (FIGS. 21C-21D) 3S, (FIGS. 21E-21F) 2S, and (FIGS. 21G-21H) 1S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere.

[0184] FIGS. 22A-22D are low magnification SEM images of 3D printed graphene foams with Ni scaffold prepared using 100P and (FIG. 22A) 5S, (FIG. 22B) 3S, (FIG. 22C) 2S, and (FIG. 22D) 1S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere.

[0185] FIGS. 23A-23H are SEM images of 3D printed graphene foams with Ni scaffold prepared using 5S and (FIGS. 23A-23B) 10P, (FIGS. 23C-23D) 20P, (FIGS. 23E-23F) 50P, and (FIGS. 23G-23H) 100P in a H.sub.2 atmosphere.

[0186] FIGS. 24A-24B are SEM images of a Ni/sucrose mixture sample without laser treatment.

[0187] FIG. 24C is the Raman spectrum of the sample imaged in FIGS. 24A-24B.

[0188] FIGS. 24D-24E are SEM images of the sample imaged in FIGS. 24A-24B but after laser treatment prepared using 100P and 2S in air.

[0189] FIG. 24F is the Raman spectrum of the sample imaged in FIGS. 24D-24E.

[0190] FIG. 25A is a photograph of a 3D printed sample prepared using the same mixture of Ni and sucrose imaged in FIGS. 24A-24B and after laser treatment with a commercial fiber laser 3D metal printer at 20 W of power and 100 cm/s rastering speed in a N.sub.2-flushed atmosphere.

[0191] FIGS. 25B-25C are SEM images of the sample imaged in FIG. 25A.

[0192] FIG. 25D is the Raman spectrum of the sample imaged in FIG. 25A.

[0193] FIGS. 26A-26B are Raman spectra of 3D printed graphene foams with a Ni scaffold prepared using (FIG. 26A) 10 to 100P with 5S and (FIG. 26B) 1 to 5S and 100P for in a H2 atmosphere.

[0194] FIGS. 27A-27C are SEM images of 3D printed graphene foams after removing Ni scaffolds prepared using 100P and 2S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere.

[0195] FIGS. 27D-27F are TEM images of 3D printed graphene foams after removing Ni scaffolds prepared using 100P and 2S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere. The inset in FIG. 27D is the SAED pattern.

[0196] FIGS. 28A-28D are, respectively (FIG. 28A) Raman spectrum, (FIG. 28B) XPS curves, (FIG. 28C) XRD pattern, and (FIG. 28D) TGA curve of 3D printed graphene foams after removing Ni prepared using 100P and 2S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere. The inset in FIG. 28B is the elemental scanning result of C 1s peak.

[0197] FIG. 29A is a schematic diagram of electrical conductivity testing. The scale bar is 1 cm.

[0198] FIGS. 29B-29C are, respectively, graphs showing current-voltage curves (I vs. V) in (FIG. 29B) semilogarithmic scale and (FIG. 29C) linear scale of 3D printed graphene foams after removing Ni prepared using loop and 2S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere.

[0199] FIGS. 30A-30B are DMA results of as-prepared 3D printed graphene foam after removing Ni prepared using loop and 2S in a H.sub.2 atmosphere: (FIG. 30A) storage modulus and loss modulus and (FIG. 30B) damping capacity at room temperature. The frequency of testing is 1 Hz.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0200] Embodiments of the present invention pertain to three dimensional (3D) graphene materials and three dimensional metal/graphene composite materials (e.g., films, sheets, layers, or objects), including on a surface. Embodiments of the present invention further include methods and apparatuses for 3D printing of same.

3D Printing Of Graphene Materials Using Combined Metal Powders And Carbon Sources

[0201] In some embodiments, the methods utilize a combination of powder metallurgy (e.g., nickel) along with a carbon source (e.g., sucrose). Such methods generally include one or more of the following steps, which are shown in the flowchart of FIG. 2A: [0202] Step 201: Mixing a metal powder (e.g., nickel powder) and a carbon source (e.g., sucrose or polymer, such as polyphenylene sulfide or polyacrylonitrile) to provide a mixture (e.g., a powder mixture) of metal and carbon source (e.g., nickel/sucrose). [0203] Step 202: Utilizing the mixture in a 3D printer to fuse the metal powder into a specific structure. [0204] Step 203: Converting the carbon source into graphene sheets that cover the metal powder utilizing a laser, which forms a metal scaffold. In some embodiments, steps 202 and 203 can be performed simultaneously. [0205] Step 204: Etching away (or otherwise removing) the formed metal scaffold to obtain the final 3D graphene object.

[0206] The methods of the present disclosure can also include a step of heat-treating the 3D graphene material.

[0207] The etching can occur by various methods, such as by using a solution etchant. Optionally, the etched metal can be recovered and recycled for further use in the method. The formed graphene material can match the shape of the 3D patterned design. The 3D printer can be a metal 3D printer. The 3D printer can include a laser source.

[0208] In some embodiments, a powder mixture of nickel and sucrose (Ni/sucrose) is used as a feedstock for 3D printing of graphene. Thereafter, a laser is used during printing to fuse the Ni powders into specific structures while converting the sucrose into graphene sheets that cover the Ni powders. After an optional heating process (which can further improve the quality of the graphene), the Ni scaffold is etched away using a solution etchant, hereby leaving a free-standing graphene object that matches the shape of the 3D patterned design.

[0209] The present invention also pertains to the printed 3D graphene materials that are formed by such 3D printing methods. In some embodiments, the printed 3D graphene materials consist essentially of graphene materials. In some embodiments, the printed 3D graphene materials have high specific surface areas, good crystallization, good electrical conductivity, and mechanical robustness. For example, the printed 3D graphene materials can have a surface area ranging from about 50 m.sup.2/g to about 2,500 m.sup.2/g. In some embodiments, the surface area is a high specific surface area that is at least 650 m.sup.2/g, and further at least 650 m.sup.2/g. Further, for example, the printed 3D graphene materials have can an electric conductivity ranging from about 6.9 S/cm to about 10.5 S/cm. Further, for example, the printed 3D graphene materials have a mechanical robustness that is at least about 11 kPa storage modulus. Also, for example, the printed 3D graphene materials have a damping capacity of at least 0.05, further at least 0.06, and still further at least 0.13.

[0210] In some embodiments, the printed 3D graphene materials are porous. For example, the printed 3D graphene material can have an average pore diameter in the range between about 1 nm and about 1 cm, further in the range between about 1 nm and 500 nm and still further in the range between about 1 nm and about 10 nm. Further, for example, the printed 3D graphene material can have a porosity of at least about 98%, and in some embodiments at least about 99%, and in still further embodiments at least about 99.5%.

[0211] The printed 3D graphene materials can be in the form of a foam. A non-automated metal powder 3D printing method for in situ synthesis of free-standing 3D graphene foams (GFs) can be made by manually placing a mixture of Ni and sucrose onto a platform, and then using a commercial CO.sub.2 laser to convert the Ni/sucrose mixture into 3D GFs. The 3D GFs were fabricated in situ by manually feeding multiple layers of a mixture of Ni and sucrose onto a stage. After each layer was deposited, the Ni/sucrose was sintered by a CO.sub.2 laser, The sucrose acted as the solid carbon source for graphene and the sintered Ni metal acted as the catalyst and template for graphene growth.

[0212] Such process paralleled an automated 3D laser metal additive printing process. This simple and efficient method combined powder metallurgy templating with 3D printing techniques, and enables direct in situ 3D printing of GFs with no high-temperature furnace or lengthy growth process required. Further, this method is not limited to inkjet-printable and UV-curable ink materials, and not limited to starting graphene-derived inks, and can be used to form macroscopic monoliths of various shapes, thus providing for the fabrication of 3D graphene materials.

[0213] In some embodiments, the printed 3D graphene materials are free-standing. In some embodiments, the printed 3D graphene objects include, without limitation, films, sheets, layers, and combinations thereof.

[0214] Optionally, in some embodiments, the etching process can be eliminated or only partially performed such that the 3D object is a 3D graphene material that is a 3D metal/graphene composite material. In such instance, the 3D metal/graphene composite material can have added strength or mechanical properties as compared to that of 3D objects that a predominately (or entirely) graphene or metal.

[0215] FIG. 2B is a schematic of 3D printing of 3D graphene foam and 3D graphene enhanced Ni composite materials. Through this process of FIG. 2B, porous free-standing 3D graphene materials are created with Ni (Ni powder 205) as the catalyst and sucrose 202 as the carbon source.

[0216] The Ni powder 205 and sucrose 206 are mixed in DI water. The mixture is stirred mechanical while heating (which will evaporate water) to form a mixture of the Ni powder/sucrose 207 (i.e., the Ni powder coated with sucrose). The ratio of Ni/sucrose can be, for example at a weight ratio between about 1:1 and about 20:1, and can be around a weight ratio of 6:1. These weight ratios can be adjusted based upon the different precursors used. The average particle size in the range can be between about 100 nm and about 1 cm average size and is generally in the range of about 1 m to about 100 m.

[0217] This mixture 207 is then utilized in a 3D printing process to print a structure 208 (such as a layer or a few layers). For instance, the metal/sucrose powders can be deposited layer by layer (or few layers by few layers) by manually shaking new layers of powder over the object (as in metal 3D printing).

[0218] The Ni particles are sintered (using laser 213) by laser treatment of the structure 208 (concurrently converting the carbon sources to graphene films on the Ni particles). This can be done in an H.sub.2 or Ar atmosphere at room temperature to obtain a 3D graphene reinforced (or enhanced) Ni composite 209. A heating treatment can optionally be performed. During this laser treatment, the Ni powders are sintered into Ni scaffolds, and graphene grows on the surface and interface regions of the Ni scaffolds, which can also absorb the carbon, and thereby form a graphene network between the Ni scaffolds.

[0219] As shown in FIG. 2B, the mixture 207 can be utilized in a 3D printing process to print additional structures 210 (additional layers), which laser treatment will add to the 3D graphene/Ni composite 209. Such layering process is repeated to further form the 3D graphene printed Ni/graphene foam composite 211.

[0220] The Ni scaffold is then removed from the 3D graphene/NI composite 211, such as by etching in a FeCl.sub.3 solution, purifying in DI water, and then drying by a critical point dryer (CPD) to obtain a 3D printed graphene object 212. CPD uses liquid/supercritical CO.sub.2 (whose critical point lies at 31 C. and 74 bar) to dry the structures. The 3D printed graphene object 212 has high specific surface area, good crystallization, good electrical conductivity, and a mechanically robust structure.

[0221] Again, the starting materials are only the metal powder (Ni powder) and carbon source (sucrose), which are inexpensive and abundant, without any binder additives added, and not limited to inkjet-printable and UV curable ink materials. Moreover, the shapes of the samples are designable by the laser cutter, as shown in FIG. 2C. Photographs 214-215 are of 3D printed foam before dissolving the Ni. Photographs 216-217 are of the same 3D printed foam after dissolving the Ni. The freestanding 3D printed graphene objects can be designed into various structures, which can be well-maintained after the etching and drying process. Compared to freeze-drying and heat-drying, the CPD can dry the GF samples with minimum changes in volume, ensuring the structural integrity of the 3D printed graphene objects [Lindahl 2012; Bolotin 2008; Inoue 1988].

[0222] Compared to the desired size of 1 cm in width, the 3D printed graphene object showed 20% shrinkage in width, which can be avoided, such as by introducing carbon nanotubes (CNTs), as demonstrated in Applicant's previous work [Sha 2017]. In addition, this shrinkage can also be addressed by reducing the size of the particles in the Ni powder, further changing to other carbon precursors, and/or quantities of carbon precursors.

[0223] Certain of the steps of the method of the present invention are similar to Applicant's previously disclosed 3D graphene foam (as shown in FIG. 3) and 3D rebar graphene foam (as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C), which previously disclosed methods were prepared by powder metallurgy template (PMT) methods (rather than 3D printing methods of the present invention). [Tour '815 PCT Application]. FIGS. 3 and 4A-4C are, respectively, FIGS. 2 and 11A-11C of the Tour '815 PCT Application.

[0224] For instance, a 3D printing graphene material fabrication process of the schematic shown in FIG. 2B was performed as follows: About 3 g of Ni powders (particle size: 2.2-3.0 m) and 0.5 g of sucrose were mixed in 150 mL of deionized (DI) water. This mixture was heated at 120 C. to evaporate water under mechanical stirring. The hybrid powders were dried at 80 C. in vacuum overnight and ground using a mortar and pestle. Next, the powders were loaded into a metal 3D printer, and the structure of the product was designed on computer. After laser treatment layer by layer in air (or H.sub.2 or Ar atmosphere) at room temperature, 3D graphene reinforced Ni composite was obtained. To improve the crystallization of graphene, as well as the performance of the composite, further heat-treatment may be applied. Finally, the Ni scaffold were removed in 1 M FeCl.sub.3 aqueous solution (200 mL, refilled with new solution every day until no color change). Next, the object was transferred into DI water for purification and dried using a critical point dryer (CPD) to obtain free-standing 3D graphene foams.

[0225] To further confirm that the growth of graphene on the Ni foam by laser was occurring, the Ni/sucrose hybrid powder was prepared and then pressed into pellets instead of performing the 3D printing step. A pulsed CO.sub.2 laser (10.6 m) was applied on the pellets to grow graphene. The samples were tested using SEM and Raman, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5D. Graphene sheets can be clearly observed in the SEM images of FIGS. 5A-5C, and the D, G, and 2D bands in Raman spectra (of FIG. 5D) indicated the growth of graphene. Therefore, the growth of graphene on Ni foam by laser was successfully shown.

[0226] The hybrid powder was also manually fed 10 times in succession, by hand, to prepare 3D printed discs to simulate the process of 3D printing, as shown in the schematic of FIG. 6. After laser treatment, 3D printed Ni/graphene discs were obtained. The sample was tested using Raman, which Raman spectra are shown in FIG. 7. The D, G, and 2D bands in this Raman spectra also demonstrated the growth of graphene.

[0227] The present invention can include numerous variations.

[0228] For instance, various metal powders may be utilized. In some embodiments, the metal powder include, without limitation, Ni, Cu, NiCu alloys, Ru, Ag, Fe, Co, Al, and combinations and alloys thereof.

[0229] Moreover, various carbon sources may be utilized. For instance, in some embodiments, the carbon sources include, without limitation, sucrose, polymethyl methacrylate, glucose, poly(phenylene sulfide), carbohydrates, poly(acrylonitrile), polysaccharides, polyimide, and combinations thereof.

[0230] By changing the components of metal powders (e.g., Ni, Cu, NiCu alloys, Ru, Ag, Fe, Co, Al, and the like), and by adding different carbon sources and additives (e.g., sucrose, polymethyl methacrylate, glucose, poly(phenylene sulfide), carbohydrates, poly(acrylonitrile), polysaccharides, polyimide, and the like), various types of 3D graphene materials can be directly printed. For instance, in some embodiments, the 3D graphene materials can include, without limitation, in-situ N-doped graphene foams, carbon nanotube/graphene composites, carbon fibers, carbon nanotube fibers, carbon nanoonions/graphene composites, phosphorene foams, 3D MX and/or MX.sub.2 foams (e.g., where M=Mo, W, Bi, Hf, Ga, Ge, Ta, Sn, Zn, Cd, Pb, B, Nb, Zr, and the like; and where X=S, N, Se, P, and the like), and their related composite foams.

[0231] In some embodiments, the carbon nanotube-graphene rebar type printing could significantly toughen the 3D graphene materials.

[0232] The shape or structure of the 3D graphene materials can be designed by various methods. For instance, in some embodiments, the shape or structure of the 3D graphene materials of the present disclosure can be designed on a computer.

[0233] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the method can combine a powder metallurgy template method with LIG, and 3D printing techniques, which can be used to prepare large scale designable 3D carbon objects through a simple 3D printing process. Such a methods can be advantageous as it overcomes potential issues of the individual processes.

Powder-Bed Based Automatic 3D Printing of Graphene Materials

[0234] In some embodiments, a powder-bed based system to automatically 3D print graphene materials using the combined powder metallurgy and carbon growth source (such as Ni/sucrose powders). For instance, a powder-bed based system described in Kinstlinger 2016 can be utilized (modified to use the powder metallurgy and carbon growth source. FIGS. 8A-8D are reproduced from Kinstlinger 2016 (FIGS. 1A-1D therein) and show various components of the system, which can include: powder distributor 801, powder reservoir 802, build volume 803, laser 804, build platform 805, mounting bracket 806, and ducting for excess powder 807. FIGS. 9A-9B are photographs of a power bed system utilized for embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 9C is an illustration of the powder bed system in FIGS. 9A-9B.

[0235] For embodiments of the present invention, a different set of laser settings can be used. For instance, a 20 W CO.sub.2 laser (10.6 m) was used under continuous firing, with a spot size of 300 m. N.sub.2 gas was used to flushing the laser environment.

[0236] The influence of different laser settings on the formation of graphene was tested using only one thin layer of Ni/sucrose powders. FIG. 10 shows the Raman spectra of different laser scanning speed, namely 100 mm/min, 200 mm/min, 1,000 mm/min, 2,000 mm/min, 5,000 mm/min, and 10,000 mm/min shown in plots 1001-1006, respectively (all with 100% laser power of a 20 W CO.sub.2 laser). Graphene Raman signals can be observed clearly with the speeds of 1,000 mm/min and 2,000 mm/min.

[0237] The laser settings also can be used to control the formation and quality of the resulting graphene. FIGS. 11A-11F show SEM images and Raman spectra of graphene formed for selected conditions. FIGS. 11A, 11C, and 11E are the SEM images of a laser-irradiated Ni/sucrose powder with a laser setting of 2,000 mm/min, at, respectively, 20%, 50%, and 100% power of a 20 W CO.sub.2 laser. FIGS. 11B, 11D, and 11F are the Raman spectra corresponding to the laser-irradiated Ni/sucrose powder of FIGS. 11A, 11C, and 11E, respectively. Graphene wrinkles and Raman signals can be clearly observed in FIGS. 11A-11F.

[0238] After use of the powder-bed based system to automatically 3D print graphene materials, this can be followed by etching and drying processes such as described above.

[0239] Hybrid powders of Ni coated with sucrose were prepared and then used in a simulated powder bed system for 3D printing. The specific 3D printing process is similar to the previously reported laser sintering process [Knuth 2004]. During the irradiation process (such as under H.sub.2 atmosphere), both the Ni powder and sucrose absorbed the laser light were locally heated to a high temperature (see FIG. 12), enabling the sintering of Ni powders to Ni scaffolds at the laser spot. (As shown in FIG. 12, sucrose absorbs light about 1000 cm.sup.1 (about 10 m). Ni absorbs at low wavenumbers. Thus, a 10.6 m CO.sub.2 laser, which should heat both Ni and sucrose, was employed in this work to grow graphene [Lin 2014; Peng 2015]. Based on known graphene growth mechanisms, the Ni particles will be sintered and sucrose will decompose to generate atomic C. The C will dissolve in the hot Ni and precipitate during the fast cooling process to form multi-layered graphene on the Ni surface).

[0240] Simultaneously, the sintered Ni scaffolds acted as the template and catalyst for graphene growth through the dissolution-precipitation process [Li 2009], while the sucrose acted as the solid carbon source [Sun 2010]. As the laser rastered across the entire printing area, each laser spot (about 100 m) exposure time was less 1 ms before the laser moved to another spot.

[0241] For each spot, the local heating first allowed the carbon from sucrose to dissolve in the Ni, and as the laser moved away, the carbon would then precipitate during the fast cooling process to form graphene on the surface of the sintered Ni scaffolds. The laser rastered over the entire area. After the first rastering, another thin layer of powder was manually added onto the top of the sample, followed by another laser irradiating process. After repeating 20 times, the 3D printed graphene foam/Ni was obtained. After etching of Ni in an FeCl.sub.3 aqueous solution (1M), purifying in DI water, and drying by a critical point dryer (CPD), a free standing 3D printed graphene foam with the designated shape was obtained.

3D Printing Of Graphene Materials Using Metal Powder With Binder

[0242] In other embodiments of the present invention, a 3D graphene object can be prepared through the CVD treatment of a 3D printed metal/binder object.

[0243] Such methods generally include one or more of the following steps, which are shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13A: [0244] Step 1301: (Optionally) Mixing a metal powder (e.g., nickel) with a binder (e.g., a polymer-based binder) to provide a mixture (e.g., a powder mixture) of metal and binder (e.g., nickel/binder). [0245] Step 1302: Utilizing a 3D printer method to selectively fuse the binder or selectively apply binder to obtain specific metal/binder structures. [0246] Step 1303: Forming graphene sheets that cover the metal powder, such as by a CVD process. In some instances, this forming is converting the binder into the graphene sheets. In other instances, this forming is by performing the CVD process utilizing a separate carbon source. [0247] Step 1304: Etching away (or otherwise removing) the formed metal scaffold to form the 3D graphene material.

[0248] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the binder is optionally mixed with the metal powder in step 1301. However, untreated metal power can be used in step 1302, in which case, the binder is applied in situ during the 3D printing process of step 1302. In such case, the metal powder is not fused in step 1302, but rather the metal powder is held together by the binder.

[0249] Optionally, in some embodiments, the etching process can be eliminated or only partially performed such that the 3D object is a 3D graphene material that is a 3D metal/graphene composite material. Again, the 3D metal/graphene composite material can have added strength or mechanical properties as compared to that of 3D objects that a predominately (or entirely) graphene or metal.

[0250] A schematic of such a 3D printing process is shown in FIG. 13B. Metal powders (such as Ni powder 1305) can be used as the feedstock for 3D printing, with the assist of a polymer-based binder to stick the metal particles together in the 3D printed Ni/binder object 1306. The Ni/binder object 1306 then goes through a CVD process where the polymer-based binder is converted into graphene sheets that cover the Ni powders (graphene in Ni 1307). The polymer-based binder acts as the carbon source for graphene growth on the surface of the Ni powders. The Ni converts the binder into carbon atoms that dissolved in the graphene upon heating (such as to 1000 C.) in the CVD furnace, and then the carbon precipitated out as graphene upon cooling.

[0251] As shown in the process of FIG. 13B, embodiments, the binder is the carbon source. The heating in the CVD furnace can be done under an atmosphere of H.sub.2 (or H.sub.2/Ar) to prevent oxidation at that temperature. In this CVD process, neither hydrogen nor other chemicals are being deposited to become part of the structure. Such heating can alternatively be done in a non-CVD furnace using H.sub.2 and/or Ar.

[0252] In an alternative embodiment, the binder can be a substance the metal powder together until sintered but is not the carbon source. The heating in the CVD furnace can be done under an atmosphere of a carbon source, such as methane (CH.sub.4), which carbon source (such as methane) can be used as a growth gas for the graphene during the CVD process (in which there is deposition taking place).

[0253] Returning to FIG. 13B, after the formation of the graphene in NI 1307, the Ni scaffold is then etched away, such as using a solution etchant (such as with ferric chloride/water) thereby leaves a free-standing graphene object 1308 that matches the shape of the 3D patterned design. The object can be monolithic, but that is not required. The resulting all-graphene object can have high specific surface area, good crystallization, good electrical conductivity, and mechanically robustness. The average particle size in the range can be between about 100 nm and about 1 cm average size and is generally in the range of about 1 m to about 100 m.

[0254] For example, Ni powders (particle size: 2.2-3.0 m) were loaded into a metal 3D printer (ExOne), and a polymer-based binder (a polysaccharide) was used to 3D print Ni/binder objects with the designed shape. A photograph of the as-printed objects is shown in FIG. 14 and SEM images and Raman characterizations are shown in FIGS. 15A-15D. FIGS. 15A-15B are SEM images for the 3D printed Ni/binder objects with FIG. 15A being the inside structure of the objects and FIG. 15B being the outside surface of the objects. (70% saturation was used for the 3D printing of Ni/binder objects). FIGS. 15C-15D are Raman characterizations for the 3D printed Ni/binder objects shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, respectively.

[0255] These objects then went through a CVD process: the objects were placed in the center position of a tube-furnace inside a quartz tube, under a flow of Ar/H.sub.2 (500 sccm/200 sccm, 9 Torr), the temperature of the furnace was slowly increased to 1000 C. (10 C./min), held at 1000 C. for 30 min, and then the objects were quickly removed from the hot zone with a magnetic boat slider, and allowed to cool to room temperature in over a period of about 10 min.

[0256] FIGS. 16A-16D and 17A-17D show the SEM and Raman characterization data of the as-grown objects. As seen in FIGS. 16A-16D and 17A-17D, graphene signal, i.e. sheet-like structure and D/G/2D Raman peaks, can be observed for almost all cases, indicating the successful preparation of 3D Ni/graphene forms.

[0257] The Ni scaffold were then removed by etching in 1 M FeCl.sub.3 aqueous solution, and the object was then transferred into DI water for washing from the residual metals (Ni and Fe salts), and finally dried using a critical point dryer (CPD) to obtain free-standing 3D graphene foams. This constitutes 3D printing of graphene foams. FIGS. 18A-18D show the 3D graphene foams during purification and after CPD drying. FIGS. 19A-19D and 20A-20D show the SEM and Raman characterization data of the 3D graphene foams, and, again, the graphene signal can be observed for almost all spot excitations, indicating the successful preparation of 3D graphene foams.

[0258] Unlike other methods in which the shape of the graphene foam is limited by the shape of the mold/die (which has advantages for mass production), for the method of the present invention, the shape of the graphene foam can be directly controlled through the 3D printing of the Ni/binder object, thus favored for more complicated applications where a specific shape of the graphene foam is required and perfect for prototyping en route to the scaled process.

[0259] Such process can also be utilized as a complementary method to the laminated object technique disclosed and described in Applicant's Tour '574 Application.

[0260] The present invention can include numerous variations.

[0261] By changing the components of metal powders (such as Ni, Cu, NiCu alloys, Ru, Ag, Fe, Co, Al, etc.), using different binder and/or additives (such as sucrose, polymethyl methacrylate, glucose, poly(phenylene sulfide), carbohydrates, poly(acrylonitrile), polysaccharides, polyimide, etc.), various types of 3D materials can be directly printed. This could include in-situ N-doped graphene foams, carbon nanotube/graphene composites, carbon nano-onions/graphene composites, phosphorene foams, 3D MX and/or MX.sub.2 foams (M=Mo, W, Bi, Hf, Ga, Ge, Ta, Sn, Zn, Cd, Pb, B, Nb, Zr, etc.; X=S, N, Se, P, etc.), and their related composite foams. The binder can vary from sugars, polysaccharides, synthetic polymers, as long as they contain carbon for graphene growth.

[0262] By adding other elements to the binder as part of the binder or as a mixture to the binder, other elements can be incorporated in the graphene structure, such as B, N, P, S, and other chalcogenides or metals, such as Fe.

[0263] Furthermore, carbon nanotubes can be added to the binder (multi-walled or single-walled or BN nanotubes) and make reinforced structures. [See Sha 2017 regarding other types of graphene materials].

[0264] Additionally, other gases (or solid or liquid sources such as ammonia borane with flowing gas over them) can be used during the CVD step to incorporate heteroatoms, such as N, B, P and S, into the graphene.

Laser Irradiation

[0265] Two noteworthy variables for control of the laser irradiation process are the laser duty cycle and the rastering speed. In general, higher laser duty cycle and lower rastering speed will result in higher energy input per unit area. In embodiments of the present invention, samples fabricated using different rastering speeds and duty cycles were systematically analyzed. The rastering speeds were 1, 2, 3, and 5%, which are referred to as 1S, 2S, 3S, and 5S, respectively. Similarly, the laser duty cycles used in this experiment are 10, 20, 50, and 100%, which are referred to as 10P, 20P, 50P, and 100P, respectively.

[0266] As shown in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images in FIGS. 21A-21H and 22A-22D, although graphene sheets can be grown on the surface of sintered Ni scaffolds with 100P and 1S, 2S, 3S, and 5S, large amounts of unreacted observed in FIGS. 21A-21B at the highest 5S speed, indicating that the sucrose was not completely converted. When the rastering speed was decreased, the amount of unreacted sucrose decreased, and the sintered Ni scaffolds were larger and had smoother surfaces. With the slower rastering speed, the laser remained at each spot for more time, delivering more energy and heat to each particular spot. This increased energy and heat converted more sucrose to graphene and allowed the Ni crystalline grain to grow larger.

[0267] While graphene wrinkles can be observed on the surface of Ni scaffolds for 2S, 3S, and 5S, as shown in FIGS. 21A, 21C, and 21E, when the rastering speed was decreased to 1S, no graphene wrinkles were observed (FIG. 21G), an indication that the graphene was much thinner with 1S. With a fixed speed at 5S, higher duty cycles also reduced the amount of unreacted sucrose and resulted in higher graphene quality because of the higher heat and energy input, as illustrated in FIGS. 23A-23H.

Laser Duty Cycles

[0268] The effect of changing laser duty cycles was systematically investigated at a constant rastering speed of 5S. With lower laser duty cycles of 10P and 20P, graphene was not detected on the surface of the Ni scaffolds, as shown in FIG. 23A-23D. When increasing the laser duty cycle (50P for FIGS. 23E-23F and 100P for FIGS. 23G-23H), graphene with wrinkled features was observed on the surface of the Ni scaffolds. Even at a duty cycle of 100P (FIGS. 23G-23H), large amounts of unreacted sucrose was still observed, indicating that the 5S rastering speed of was too fast.

[0269] Untreated sucrose coated Ni particles were analyzed by SEM, as shown in FIGS. 24A-24B. The Ni particles were aggregated, with sucrose apparently acting as a binder. The charging effect was observed during SEM operation, indicating the low conductivity of the Ni/sucrose mixture. The sucrose on the surface was detected by Raman spectroscopy, as shown in FIG. 24C.

[0270] The 3D printing process was performed in air using a laser duty cycle of 100P and rastering speed of 2S. (100P was chosen in view of the indications from FIGS. 23A-23H). As shown in FIG. 24D-24E, a large number of particles were observed on the surface of the sintered Ni scaffolds, and little or no graphene was present. The Raman spectrum in FIG. 24F displays NiO.sub.x signals, and no graphene-based D, G, or 2D bands. It is believed that the sucrose was burned away by the laser in air; the Raman analysis shows the Ni was oxidized. Based on this result, this reflected that the laser reaction should be done in an inert or reducing (H.sub.2) atmosphere.

Laser Wavelength

[0271] A commercial automated 3D metal printer (Concept Laser, Mlab) at Qualified Rapid Products Company was utilized to attempt to synthesize 3D graphene objects using the process of the present invention. The 3D metal printer was equipped with a 1.06 m fiber laser system. The samples were printed under a N.sub.2-flushed atmosphere. As shown in FIG. 25A, a 1 cm1 cm1 cm product was obtained. The SEM images (FIGS. 25B-25C) indicated the lack of graphitic structures and the presence of what was believed to be unconverted sucrose. Ni particles, rather than sintered Ni scaffolds, were observed. It was further believed that the sucrose melted under the high heat conditions and acted as a binder in the cubic sample, instead of decomposing. The Raman spectrum in FIG. 25D shows no graphene.

[0272] This result indicated that use of a 10.6 m CO.sub.2 laser is optimal for making 3D GFs with Ni/sucrose mixtures. By contrast, the wavelength of the 1.06 um laser overlapped strongly with the absorption band of the Ni metal but poorly with that of sucrose (see FIG. 12) resulting in uneven heating that was not conducive to graphene formation. Matching the laser wavelength to the absorption bands of both the carbon source and the metal powder would yield optimal results.

Characterization

[0273] Considering the experimental time for rastering, the amount of residual sucrose, and the fact that thicker graphene will possess better mechanical performance, the combination of a rastering speed of 2S and a laser duty cycle of 100P was selected for further experiments and characterization.

[0274] Raman spectroscopy was employed to further investigate the quality of the graphene printed by varying the laser duty cycle and rastering speed. This Raman spectroscopy is shown in FIGS. 26A-26B. For all duty cycles and rastering speeds, the Raman spectra have the typical sp.sup.2 carbon modes, showing the D bands (1350 cm.sup.1), G bands (1580 cm.sup.1), and 2D bands (2670 cm.sup.1), indicating the existence of graphene [Li 2015; Singh 2015; Sun 2013; Yan 2014; Wu 2015]. The calculated I.sub.D/I.sub.G ratios are of samples printed with different rastering speeds and laser duty cycles were in the range of 0.2-0.4, demonstrating the high structural quality of the as-printed graphene. The comparable I.sub.G/I.sub.2D ratios (0.6 to 1.8) indicated the as-printed samples were multilayered graphene, which would contribute to good mechanical performance of 3D printed GFs.

[0275] Moreover, the position of the 2D bands as well as the I.sub.G/I.sub.2D ratios indicate that the number of layers in the as-printed GFs should be 1 to 10 layers, as when the layer number is greater than 10, the 2D band shifts to 2700 cm.sup.1 [Ferrari 2006].

[0276] With 100P laser duty cycle and 2S rastering speed, the morphology and structure of 3D printed GFs after removing the Ni scaffolds was investigated by SEM and transmission electron microscope (TEM), as shown in FIGS. 27A-27C and 27D-27F, respectively. Even after the three-step removal of the Ni scaffolds, the 3D printed GFs retained the structure of the sintered Ni scaffold, as shown in FIGS. 27A-27C. The 3D printed GFs include both particle-like hollow carbon shells that show structures similar to the Ni scaffolds and Ni particles since Ni acted as templates during growth, thereby permitting pore size commensurate with the metal particle sizes used. The porous structure of the 3D printed GFs could benefit applications in vibration damping and energy storage related fields [Sha 2016; Sha 2017; Sun 2013]. The density of 3D printed GFs was 0.0150.003 g cm.sup.3 calculated by measuring the mass and volume of the CPD dried monoliths. The porosity of 3D printed GFs was 99.30.2% calculated by the equation:

[00001]$\begin{array}{cc}=\left(1-\frac{m}{\mathrm{Vd}}\right)100.Math.\%,& \left(1\right)\end{array}$

where , m, V, and d are the porosity, mass, volume, and density of graphite (which is 2.09 to 2.23 g cm.sup.3), respectively [Loisel 2016].

[0277] Both the density and porosity values of the 3D printed GFs are comparable to other carbon foam materials [Kim 2012]. The TEM image in FIG. 27D shows a large graphene sheet. The inset of FIG. 27D is the selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern showing the hexagonal single crystal signal of the graphene. The carbon shells in FIG. 27E are similar to those shown in the SEM images (FIGS. 27A-27C). The high magnification image in FIG. 27F shows the few-layered structure of 3D printed GFs, which can be observed from the edge of graphene sheet, and is in good accordance with the results from the Raman spectra in FIGS. 26A-26B.

[0278] The crystalline quality, elemental composition, phases, and purity of the 3D printed GFs were further investigated by Raman, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), as shown in FIGS. 28A-28D, respectively.

[0279] Similar to the spectra in FIGS. 26A-26B, typical D (1350 cm.sup.1), (1580 cm.sup.1) and 2D (2670 cm.sup.1) bands can be detected by Raman, shown in FIG. 28A. The I.sub.D/I.sub.G ratio of the purified GFs was 0.44, indicating a high quality of the 3D printed GFs. The I.sub.G/I.sub.2D ratio of 2.28 is indicative of multi-layered graphene [Li 2015; Singh 2015; Sun 2013; Yan 2014], which should contribute to the good mechanical properties of the 3D printed GFs. The 2D bands at 2670 cm.sup.1 demonstrated that the content of the 3D printed GFs was indeed graphene, rather than graphite [Singh 2015].

[0280] The C is peak (284.5 eV) in the XPS elemental spectra, as shown in FIG. 28B, indicated the material was graphene or graphite [Li 2015; Yan 2014; Bae 2010]. Small amounts of Fe impurities (C 1s: 76.7 at %; O 1s: 23.0 at %; Fe 2p3: 0.3 at %.) were also detected by XPS, which came from the FeCl.sub.3 etching solution and can be further removed with additional treatment if necessary [Sha 2016].

[0281] The XRD patterns in FIG. 28C also indicates the low content of impurities in the 3D printed GFs. No obvious Fe or Ni peaks were detected, and all the peaks matched well with the expected peaks of a graphite phase [Sha 2016; Sha 2017; Dong II 2012]. An additional small peak at 35 was also detected, as shown in FIG. 28C. The small peak could be attributed to Fe.sub.2O.sub.3 [Zeng 2010], arising from the FeCl.sub.3 etching solution. Such Fe contamination can be eliminated by using HCl as an alternative etching reagent.

[0282] TGA testing was performed in air from room temperature to 900 C., as shown in FIG. 28D. Only 1.9 wt % remained after testing, demonstrating that the Ni scaffolds and Fe etching residues were almost completely removed by the etching process. However, the rapid weight drop before 480 C. indicated the existence of amorphous carbon and unreacted sucrose, since the laser rastering process could still be too fast to completely convert the carbon from sucrose into graphene.

Conductivity

[0283] The conductivity of 3D printed GFs was tested, as shown in FIG. 29A. Pt contact pads (250 m250 m) were deposited directly onto the surface of 3D printed GFs using a shadow mask evaporation method. The distance between the contact pads was 120 m. FIG. 29B shows the room-temperature conductivity of 3D printed GFs. FIG. 29C indicates the ohmic contact between the Pt pads and the 3D printed GFs.

[0284] The average electrical conductivity of the 3D printed GFs is

=Il/VA=8.71.8 S cm.sup.1(2)

[0285] where I, l, V, and A are the measured current, channel length, applied voltage, and cross-sectional area of 3D printed GFs, respectively.

[0286] This value was comparable but lower than that of 3D GFs (13.8 S cm.sup.1) prepared using powder metallurgy templates and other methods [Chen 2011; Choi 2012; Worsley 2010; Liu 2012; Shao 2015; Chen 2013; Yaun 2012; Wu 2003]. Although the high quality and multi-layered graphene features as demonstrated in FIGS. 28A-28D indicates that the 3D printed GFs should possess high electrical conductivity, since the 3D printed GFs were prepared from loose powder rather than a hydraulic cold-pressing process, the resulting GFs have a relatively low density, high porosity structure with low conductivity. The 3D printed GFs were quite soft, so it was difficult to avoid damaging the Pt contact pads when touched by the probe tips during testing, which would also lead to a lower conductivity value. The conductivity of the foamed GFs structure can be improved by introducing CNTs to prepare 3D printed rebar GFs, which can also make the GFs mechanically stronger, as demonstrated in Applicant's previous work [Sha 2017; Yan 2014].

Mechanical Properties

[0287] To further investigate the mechanical properties of the 3D printed GFs, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) testing was carried out under a constant frequency of 1 Hz with an amplitude of 20 m (fixed displacement) up to 70,000 cycles at room temperature. As shown in FIG. 30A, the storage modulus of 3D printed GFs was 11 kPa, which is comparable with 3D GFs prepared by powder metallurgy templates and other methods [Sha 2017; Sun 2013; Wu 2015].

[0288] After testing for 70,000 cycles, no collapse was detected, indicating a good structural stability of the 3D printed GFs. The room temperature damping capacity of 3D printed GFs was calculated using the following equation:

Tan =loss modulus/storage modulus(3)

where Tan is the damping capacity of the sample.

[0289] As shown in FIG. 30B, the damping capacity of the 3D printed GFs was 0.13 to 0.06, which is comparable with values reported previously, as listed in Table 1.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Room temperature damping capacities reported in the literature. Materials Damping capacity Reference 3D printed GF ~0.06 Herein 3D GF 0.19 Sha 2017 3D rebar GF with 10 wt % of CNTs 0.13 Sha 2017 3D rebar GF with 18 wt % of CNTs 0.07 Sha 2017 Graphene sponge ~0.04 Wu 2015 CNTs/GO aerogels ~0.05-0.1 Sun 2013 20 vol % SiC reinforced A365 Al alloy 0.034-0.04 Wu 2003 Pure Al foam 0.022 Deng 2007 CNTs reinforced 2024Al alloy ~0.005 Li 2017

[0290] The damping capacity of 3D printed GFs was also comparable to that of some foamed metal materials. Moreover, this 3D printing method of the present invention is much easier and faster than other reported 3D GF preparation methods [Chen 2011; Qin 2014 Choi 2012; Zakhidov 1998; Xu 2010; Sha 2016; Wu 2015], and there is no requirement for a high-temperature furnace or long growth process.

Uses of 3D Printed Graphene Materials

[0291] The 3D printed graphene materials of the present invention have various utilities. For instance, in some embodiments, the free-standing 3D printed graphene (or other variations) could show high specific surface area, good crystallization, good electrical conductivity, and a mechanically robust structure. Moreover, the 3D printed graphene materials can be utilized in various fields requiring 3D frameworks, such as in electrodes, battery electrodes, supercapacitors, batteries, lithium batteries, lithium ion batteries, fuel cell devices, water desalination, capacitive deionization, catalysts for water decomposition, water splitting, water-oil separation, water/gas purification, sensors, mechanical dampening, cell scaffolds for artificial wood, scaffolds for growth of bone or animal/human tissue in vivo or in vitro, scaffolds for neuronal growth in vitro or in vivo, and spinal cord regeneration scaffolds.

[0292] For instance, the 3D printed graphene material can be utilized in a device that is selected from a group consisting of electrodes, battery electrodes, capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, lithium batteries, lithium ion batteries, photovoltaic devices, photovoltaic cells, transistors, current collectors, fuel cell devices, water desalination devices, capacitive deionization devices, water-splitting devices, water-oil separation devices, water/gas purification devices, sensors, mechanical dampening devices, cell scaffolds for artificial wood, scaffolds for growth of bone or animal/human tissue in vivo or in vitro, scaffolds for neuronal growth in vitro or in vivo, and spinal cord regeneration scaffolds. For instance, the 3D printed graphene material can be utilized as an electrode (such as for a device that is selected from a group consisting of capacitors, supercapacitors, batteries, lithium batteries, lithium ion batteries, photovoltaic devices, photovoltaic cells, transistors, current collectors, fuel cell devices, water desalination devices, capacitive deionization devices, water-splitting devices, water-oil separation devices, water/gas purification devices, sensors, mechanical dampening devices, etc.).

[0293] While embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and teachings of the invention. The embodiments described and the examples provided herein are exemplary only, and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations and modifications of the invention disclosed herein are possible and are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. The scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above.

[0294] The disclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, to the extent that they provide exemplary, procedural, or other details supplementary to those set forth herein.

[0295] Concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a numerical range of approximately 1 to approximately 4.5 should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited limits of 1 to approximately 4.5, but also to include individual numerals such as 2, 3, 4, and sub-ranges such as 1 to 3, 2 to 4, etc. The same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value, such as less than approximately 4.5, which should be interpreted to include all of the above-recited values and ranges. Further, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristic being described.

[0296] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter belongs. Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the presently disclosed subject matter, representative methods, devices, and materials are now described.

[0297] Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms a and an mean one or more when used in this application, including the claims.

[0298] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term about. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in this specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0299] As used herein, the term about, when referring to a value or to an amount of mass, weight, time, volume, concentration or percentage is meant to encompass variations of in some embodiments 20%, in some embodiments 10%, in some embodiments 5%, in some embodiments 1%, in some embodiments 0.5%, and in some embodiments 0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed method.

[0300] As used herein, the term and/or when used in the context of a listing of entities, refers to the entities being present singly or in combination. Thus, for example, the phrase A, B, C, and/or D includes A, B, C, and D individually, but also includes any and all combinations and subcombinations of A, B, C, and D.

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