Orthogonal Functionalization of Oxo-Graphene Nanoribbons

Oxo-graphene nanoribbons (oxo-GNRs) can be prepared by the oxidative unzipping of single-walled carbon nanotubes. We present an orthogonal functionalization method for the functionalization of the rims and the π-surface, respectively, what is only possible due to the high rim portion in oxo-GNRs. In particular, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy could be used to follow the reaction and detect the marker atoms contained in the addends. We propose that the reported orthogonal functionalization strategy can also be applied on other oxo-functionalized carbon materials, such as graphene quantum dots, or reduced graphene oxide flakes.