One-Step Transformation of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Networks into High-Performance Multilayer Graphene-Rich Films via Laser Shockwave Compaction

Abstract

An unprecedented chemical-free, one-step method is presented to convert single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) networks into multilayer graphene-rich films at an exceptionally low temperature (<120 degrees C). This transformation is driven by high-rate, repetitive pressure (approximate to 2.27 GPa) from laser-induced shockwaves, which compact and restructure the SWCNTs network to a graphenic film. A key mechanism is based on the controlled unzipping of SWCNTs under intense shockwave compaction, enabling their transition into multilayer graphene with near-equilibrium van der Waals layer spacing. The resulting graphene-rich films exhibit a sevenfold increase in thermal conductivity (66.25 +/- 7.16 W m(-1) K-1) and a 2.6-fold enhancement in electrical conductivity (0.18 +/- 0.06 MS m(-1)), significantly improving the thermal and electrical transport properties. This scalable and energy-efficient method uniquely enables interface engineering and continuous sp2 structure reconstruction, opening new avenues for high-performance electronics, thermal management, and energy storage applications.