Synthesis of nickel nanosheet/graphene composites for biosensor applications

The growth of graphene-based nanostructures using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is a promising approach for novel applications. CVD processes typically use high-quality metal films as catalyst substrates, and require accurate control over the experimental conditions. Here, we report the direct synthesis of Ni nanosheet/graphene composites using a DC arc plasma jet CVD method, using Ni(NO3)2 as a catalyst precursor. The composites consisted of graphene nanosheets, graphene nanoribbons, and core–shell Ni/graphene nanosheets. In this process, no catalyst substrate was required, and the very high-quality graphene grew at the {1 1 1} plane of the Ni. It was demonstrated that the Ni nanosheet/graphene composites could be used as sensitive films for l-alanine sensing. The strong electrocatalytic properties resulted from the synergetic effects of the graphene, which enhanced the electron transfer, and the high catalytic activity of the Ni.