Multilayered graphene grafted copper wires

Abstract

Multilayered graphene is grown on copper (Cu) wires by chemical vapor deposition. Mechanical, chemical, thermal and electrical performances are investigated as a function of growth conditions. The graphene layer which makes a volume of approximately 0.02% of the Cu wire enables a 28&#8211

37% improvement on tensile strength and strain-to-failure. The chemical resistance of graphene grafted Cu wires increases by 1.5&#8211

3 times in nitric acid, aqua regia, and 1M ammonium persulfate etchants. The electrical resistivity of graphene grafted Cu wires remains almost constant with increasing temperature up to 175&#8239

°C, while the resistivity degradation of Cu wires without graphene starts to increase from 70&#8239

°C. We demonstrate that graphene can protect the Cu wire from thermal oxidation and chemical etchants and can effectively enhance the mechanical and electrical properties of the Cu wire.