Material Identity
Primary name: Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO)
CAS number: 1034343-98-0(Graphene)
Synonyms: reduced graphene oxide; rGO nanosheets; rGO
Material class: graphene-family carbon nanomaterial
Generalized formula: CxHyOz
Physical form: solid powder (black)
What it is not: pristine graphene; graphite(7782-42-5); graphene oxide
Mechanism of Action
Reduced graphene oxide functions through formation of interconnected two-dimensional conductive networks.
Electrical and thermal transport are governed by percolation rather than intrinsic conductivity.
- Percolation network: Sheet-to-sheet contact enables conduction
- Contact resistance: Dominated by overlap and defect density
- Dispersion sensitivity: Agglomeration disrupts pathways
Activation & Trigger Conditions
Thermal, chemical, electrochemical, or photothermal reduction.
Functional Role
Electrical conduction, thermal transport, interfacial enhancement, and electron transfer support.
Application Windows
Compatible systems: polymers, coatings, hybrid fillers, electrodes.
Loading behavior: governed by percolation threshold.
Limitations & Failure Modes
- Agglomeration: breaks conductive pathways
- Residual defects: cap conductivity
- Moisture uptake: performance drift
- Interface mismatch: weak reinforcement
When to Use
- When percolation-based conductivity is required
- When dispersion can be controlled
- When moderate conductivity is acceptable
When NOT to Use
- When pristine graphene performance is required
- When dispersion control is impossible
- When long-term water stability is required
Misuse Cases
Use without dispersion control, use in defect-intolerant electronics,
or direct aqueous systems without stabilization.
Alternatives & Trade-offs
Carbon black (higher loading), CNTs (dispersion complexity, pristine graphene (cost and scalability limits),
GNP — enhanced conductivity with a stable dispersal system required
FAQ
Is rGO the same as graphene?
No. rGO contains residual oxygen groups and structural defects, unlike pristine graphene.
Is rGO water soluble?
No. Dispersion requires formulation or surface treatment.