What is the work function of graphene sheets?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the work function of graphene sheets, particularly in the context of their application in ionizers and potential use in solar cells. Participants explore various factors influencing the work function, including growth methods, substrates, and environmental conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the work function of graphene varies based on the growth method, metallic substrate, and physical environment, suggesting that precise measurements are necessary for specific applications.
  • There is a suggestion that graphene's resistance to oxidation might make carbon oxide a preferable alternative, although this point is met with some confusion regarding its relevance.
  • One participant raises a general doubt about surface-related effects, such as the photoelectric effect and thermal radiation, and their relationship to surface area, proposing that methods like anodizing or nanotube growth might not yield proportional increases in emission coefficients.
  • A potential application of graphene in low-cost photoelectric cells is proposed, involving the use of parallel graphene plates heated by solar energy.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the factors affecting the work function of graphene and the implications for its use in applications. There is no consensus on the best approach or material for achieving desired outcomes.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on specific experimental conditions and the variability of results based on different methodologies and environments. The discussion does not resolve the uncertainties regarding the optimal material or method for enhancing the photoelectric effect.

Javier Lopez
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I have found different values depending where is read.
I should like have a graphene sheet on copper to be used in a ionizer to generate lots of electrons
 
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Javier Lopez said:
I have found different values depending where is read.
I should like have a graphene sheet on copper to be used in a ionizer to generate lots of electrons

It is because it depends on the growth method, the metallic substrate, and the physical environment of the graphene (in vacuum as opposed to exposing it in air), among other things. Either you find a reference that has the graphene sheet in the exact same situation as yours, or you make your own measurement of the work function of your graphene.

Zz.
 
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May be. Another think is graphene does not catch oxigen, so perhaps carbon oxide one (I think exist) is better
 
Javier Lopez said:
May be. Another think is graphene does not catch oxigen, so perhaps carbon oxide one (I think exist) is better

Not exactly sure what you are talking about here.

Solar cells are PN photodiodes. The current is due to photogeneration. This is not THE standard photoelectric effect, which is the emission of photoelectron into vacuum.

Zz.
 
I have in general a doubth about different surface related effects: photoelectric, thermal radiation and charge density in capacitors (and perhaps some others): all are proportional to surface area, but there are several surface increasing methods asanodizing or grow nanotubes that does not increases the effect directly proportional to new surface that can be dozens times, but perhaps reduces a few the emission coefficient.

The photoelectric effect is very interesting, because if you place 2 pallalel graphene plates and heat one using sun energy and mirrors to high temperatures you could have a low cost photoelectric cell using almost all the sun spectrum :)

J.L.
 

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