Structure Characterization of CuCl2-FeCl3-H2SO4 Graphite Intercalation Compounds

Graphite intercalation compounds with CuCl2-FeCl3-H2SO4 were synthesized via a hydrothermal treatment at 150C and exfoliation method. The structure and composition of these graphite intercalation compounds were analyzed by means of X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that the CuCl2-FeCl3-H2SO4 molecules were successfully intercalated into the interlayer of the graphite sheets. The temperature dependence of magnetization was measured from 5 K to 300 K. Two antiferromagnetic transitions of the graphite intercalation compounds were observed at low temperatures. The critical transition temperatures are estimated to be about 50 and 102 K. The related magnetic properties are discussed briefly.