Controlled preparation of core-shell SiC/graphene powders by combustion synthesis

High-purity SiC/graphene powders with the core-shell structure were controllably prepared by combustion synthesis from Mg/SiC powders in 0.5 MPa CO2 atmosphere. The maximum reaction temperatures were much higher than 1000 ℃, greatly promoting the vapor reaction between Mg and CO2. The thickness of synthesized graphene can be well regulated in the range of 1–10 layers by changing the Mg/SiC mass ratio in the raw materials. The graphene layers were complete and uniformly coated on the surface of SiC particles. The interface between SiC and graphene was clear and well bonded without any interface separation or amorphous layer. Further, core-shell SiC/graphene powders synthesized in this work have great potential for application in the field of electromagnetic shielding, photocatalysis, etc.