Graphene-inorganic hybrids (ii)

Graphene-based nanohybrids with metallic oxides have been discussed in the last chapter. In this chapter, hybrids with other inorganic components, including metallic nanoparticles, other nanocarbon (non-graphene) items, semiconductor nanoparticles and so on, will be elaborated upon. It has been acknowledged that the physical and chemical properties of noble metal nanostructures are highly dependent on their size, shape, composition and microstructure [1, 2]. Signifi cant progress has been achieved in the synthesis and characterization of noble metal nanocrystals, which could be potentially used in various areas, including catalysis, sensors and medicine [3-7]. Due to their scarcity on the Earth and thus their high cost, the incorporation of noble metals with other materials has become one of the most effective ways to make full use of these special materials [8-10], and exploring graphene-based hybrids is one of them [11-13]. Moreover, graphene-based hybrids with other carbon nanostructures are also of special interest, because of their similarity in chemical composition and difference in physical morphology [14].