Graphene Origami

Graphene, which features unparalleled in-plane strength and low out-of-plane bending energy, is an ideal material with which to tackle the challenge of building three-dimensional structures and moving parts at the nanoscale. Here we demonstrate laser-induced folding and scrolling of large-area monolayer graphene in solution. Monolayer graphene is typically well-adhered to its substrate, but we have achieved control of the adhesion using a combination of an aluminum sacrificial layer and surfactants. Once the graphene can move, local heating with an infrared laser and the interfacial tension of laser-nucleated bubbles allow us to lift, fold, and scroll the graphene. We have also formed a regular array of polymer dots on the graphene surface which can be easily imaged in three dimensions, allowing us to optically track the shape of the graphene as it moves. And finally, we establish graphene's viability as a strong but flexible sheet hinge by building and manipulating structures of rigid metallic panels connected by strips of graphene.