Reduced graphene-cadmium sulfide hybrid nanopowders: solvothermal synthesis and enhanced electrochemical performance

Graphene-cadmium sulfide nanocomposite (G-CdS) was prepared by one pot solvothermal route. Graphite oxide( GO) was well dispersed in dimethyl sulfoxide(DMSO) solution of ions Cd2+, where DMSO acted as a sulphide source as well as reducing agent, resulting in the formation of G-CdS nanocomposite and simultaneous reduction of GO to graphene nanosheets (GNs). The size of CdS nanoparticles (NPs) in G-CdS was around 10 nm, and the large 2D flexible atom-thin layer of graphene made it easier to control the distribution of CdS NPs. The electrochemical performances of G-CdS nanocomposite were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and charge/discharge techniques. It showed that the G-CdS nanocomposite had a high electrochemical activity, durability, and stability. And the electronic conductivity of nanocomposite was improved and the stability of electrode was enhanced because of the introduction of GNs.