Folding 2D Graphene Nanoribbons into 3D Nanocages Induced by Platinum Nanoclusters

Manipulating graphene to controllably design three-dimensional (3D) architectures of graphene would be an intriguing approach to prevent two-dimensional 5.0 ps (2D) aggregation. Herein, 2D graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) have been controllably folded into 3D graphene nanocages (GNCs) by introducing platinum nanoclusters (Pt NCs) forming composite nanoclusters. The van der Waals interaction between the GNR and Pt NC plays a critical role in the self-folding process. The nanocluster shape influences the outer cage of the composite nanocluster largely, in which the spherical Pt NCs could initiate the formation of tetrahedron GNC or graphene nanoscroll, while the other shaped Pt NCs conduct the GNC folding contour the nanocluster geometry. In addition, the sizes of Pt NCs and GNRs also significantly influenced the self-folding process. The controlled folding of 2D GNRs into 3D architectures opens up new avenues for the exploration and fabrication of unique graphene-based nanomaterials and nanodevices toward energy and drug delivery applications.