Effect of preparation methods of graphene oxide on permeability of free-standing membranes against polar and nonpolar species

In this study, graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized using Hummers, modified Hummers and improved Hummers methods, and then freestanding membranes were prepared based on these materials. Effects of different GO preparation methods on C/O ratio and interlayer spacing of freestanding membranes were studied. Structure of these membranes was studied by X-ray diffraction, contact angle, XRF, FT-IR, and FESEM methods. Also, permeability of ammonia, dichloromethane, and water vapor was investigated through these membranes. Results showed that, the sample prepared by the Hummers method had lower C/O ratio, smoother surface and lower permeability for polar species, such as water and ammonia vapors, than nonpolar materials. Membranes prepared using Improved Hummers method showed the least permeability against nonpolar vapors such as dichloromethane.