  Time kinetics of interaction of natural graphite (GR) to colloidal graphene
(G) collagen (C) nanocomposites was studied at ambient conditions, and observed
that just one day at ambient conditions is enough to form colloidal graphene
directly from graphite using the protein collagen. Neither controlled
temperature and pressure ambiance nor sonication was needed for the same;
thereby rendering the process biomimetic. Detailed spectroscopy, X ray
diffraction, electron microscopy as well as fluorescence and luminescence
assisted characterization of the colloidal dispersions on day one and day seven
reveals graphene and collagen interaction and subsequent rearrangement to form
an open structure. Detailed confocal microscopy, in the liquid state, reveals
the initial attack at the zigzag edges of GR, the enhancement of auto
fluorescence and finally the opening up of graphitic stacks of GR to form near
transparent G. Atomic Force Microscopy studies prove the existence of both
collagen and graphene and the disruption of periodicity at the atomic level.
Thermal conductivity of the colloid shows a 17% enhancement for a volume
fraction of less than 0.00005 of G. Time variant increase in thermal
conductivity provides qualitative evidence for the transient exfoliation of GR
to G. The composite reveals interesting properties that could propel it as a
future material for advanced bio applications including therapeutics.
