One-pot exfoliation with simultaneous functionalization of graphene via wireless polarization

The field of 2D materials has rapidly grown and has expanded further by the tunability of their unique properties for device fabrication. Covalent functionalization, such as spontaneous grafting and electrografting, has been employed to enhance dispersibility and optimize performance for various applications; however, several challenges still remain. Current methods often require reactive conditions that hinder control over modification uniformity or rely on conductive materials, limiting scalability. This work introduces a one-pot protocol for exfoliating and functionalizing 2D materials using wireless polarization, demonstrated with graphene. The method is conducted in water without using surfactants or toxic solvents and produces high-quality exfoliated graphene flakes, confirmed via transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. Functionalization with diazonium chemistry is validated through XPS and thermogravimetric analysis combined with mass spectrometry, showcasing successful grafting. The scalable, versatile wireless approach has the potential to be applicable to a wide range of 2D materials and organic functionalization methods, offering the prospect for industrial integration and broadening possibilities in device applications.