Studies on carbon-based composite materials with sp2-sp3 hybridizations

This international project pursues a comprehensive experimental study of sp2-sp3 carbon composites. Its main focus is on combinations of sp2-hybridized carbon nanosheets (produced by carbonization of polymer films), carbon nanotubes in the form of buckypaper, graphene (CVD and exfoliated), and sp3-hybridized poly-crystalline diamond produced by microwave plasma CVD. Morphological, chemical and opto-electronic properties and physical processes will be characterized by a variety of analytical techniques available at the participant’s laboratories. The results will be used for fundamental understanding of growth mechanisms, mutual interactions and properties of the prepared composites. Concerted collaboration of two complementary partners (KIST and IoP ASCR) coming from diverse disciplines will create strong synergetic effect and advance the state of art. The project also involves young researchers and students who will acquire practical experience in multidisciplinary research.