Abstract
Covalently cross-linked 2D heterostructures may represent a ground-breaking approach to creating materials with multifunctionalities. To date, however, this field still remains relatively unexplored. In the present work, Co(3)O(4)/GO covalently linked heterostructures (Co(3)O(4)/GO-CL) were produced using 2D-Co(3)O(4) functionalized with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) to react with the carboxyl groups of graphene oxide (GO). The surface and interface properties of the final material were assessed through electrochemical and catalytic studies. We found that the covalent bonds lead to a self-standing and ordered final structure, not observed for the noncovalent material (Co(3)O(4)/GO-nCL), also produced for comparison. The catalytic activity of Co(3)O(4)/GO-CL over the degradation of Rhodamine 6G showed great performance and the possibility of recycling the catalyst. Electrochemical evaluation stated higher specific capacitance for the covalently bonded material (468 F g(-1) against 110 F g(-1)). Overall, results showed that the covalent bonds may be improving charge-transfer and interfacial area features, thus leading to enhanced catalytic and electrochemical performances.