Magnetic hysteresis loop as a probe to distinguish single layer from many layer graphitic structure

Abstract

In this report we have pointed out that magnetic hysteresis loop can be used as a probe to distinguish a single layer from a many layer graphitic structure. Chemically we have synthesized graphitic oxide (GO) and reduced graphitic oxide (RGO) for this investigation. We observe ferromagnetic like hysteresis loops for both GO and RGO below a certain applied critical magnetic field and above this critical field we observe cross-over of the positive magnetization to negative magnetization leading to diamagnetic behaviour. This cross-over is more dominant for the case of many layer graphitic structure. Upon annealing of GO in air the critical cross-over field decreases and the magnetization increases for multilayer graphitic structure. Possible reasons for all these observations and phenomena is presented here.