Formation of a N2O5-graphite intercalation compound by ozone treatment of natural graphite

In this work for the first time a stage-2 graphite intercalation compound with dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5-GIC) by only ozonation of natural graphite is prepared. This process proceeds through the formation of intermediate N2O resulting from the interaction of ozone with nitrogen over the graphite surface. Nitrogen necessary for the abovementioned synthesis is provided by an ozone generator supplied with air, not with oxygen. The fact that the described intercalation is possible owing to the presence of only graphite and air without the use of any additional substances makes the described process one of the most environmentally friendly in chemistry. The characteristics of this process guarantee that no waste is produced during its course which additionally enriches its pro-ecological character. The amount as well as the distribution of the intercalate within the GIC strongly depend on the duration of ozonation. Prolonged exposure of graphite to ozone yields stage-2 N2O5-GIC which is proved by the results of XRD, Raman and FTIR spectroscopy.