Fabrication and characterization of few-layer graphene

Few-layer graphene were produced on transition-metal templates by using super-short-pulse laser produced plasma deposition techniques. Transparent few-layer graphene with the average thickness less than 8 nm, width up to 350 nm, and length more than 3 mu m were successfully obtained. An unusual edge reconstruction was observed: a double layer folded back on itself, representing four layers. Wrinkles were found within the few-layer graphene, which is likely due to the presence of nanoparticles underneath the few-layer graphene causing distortion. This method of growing few-layer graphene can provide valuable information for understanding the growth mechanism of graphene, which may facilitate its controllable synthesis and applications. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.