Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a method for forming a hybrid structure. Initially, a wire is received and an encapsulating film is deposited on the wire. Subsequently, the wire is selectively removed to leave a hollow tube formed of the encapsulating film. A plurality of active particles are then placed into the hollow tube by immersing the hollow tube in a suspension comprising the plurality of active particles and a liquid. Lastly, the hollow tube and the plurality of active particles therein are removed from the suspension and allowed to dry so as to form a cluster of active particles at least partially encapsulated by the encapsulating film.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a container comprising a tub, a basket, and a lid. The tub is adapted to hold a liquid and comprises a bottom and a tub sidewall having an upper rim defining an opening in the tub. The basket is disposed on the bottom of the tub and comprises a base and a basket sidewall. The base defines a perimeter, and the basket sidewall runs along at least a portion of this perimeter. The lid contacts the upper rim and comprises a filler piece. The filler piece occupies a volume inside the tub between the base and a plane defined by the upper rim. The container is adapted to hold a sensitive film stack without damage or degradation to the film stack. The container is further adapted to facilitate the easy transfer of the film stack to a new substrate.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of forming a film on a substrate. The substrate and a solid carbon source are placed into a reactor. Subsequently, both the substrate and the solid carbon source are heated. Optionally, one or more process gases may be introduced into the reactor to help drive the formation of the film. The film comprises graphene.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to an electrode for use in an electronic device. The electrode comprises a plurality of nanostructures and a passivating film. Each nanostructure in the plurality of nanostructures contacts or is fused to one or more other nanostructures in the plurality of nanostructures. The passivating film at least partially covers the plurality of nanostructures and comprises one or more layers of graphene.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of forming a thin film adhered to a target substrate. The method comprises the steps of: (i) forming the thin film on a deposition substrate; (ii) depositing a support layer on the thin film; (iii) removing the deposition substrate without substantially removing the thin film and the support layer; (iv) drying the thin film and the support layer while the thin film is only adhered to the support layer; (v) placing the dried thin film and the dried support layer on the target substrate such that the thin film adheres to the target substrate; and (vi) removing the support layer without substantially removing the thin film and the target substrate.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of forming graphene structures. Initially, a cluster of particles is received. The cluster of particles comprises a plurality of particles with each particle in the plurality of particles contacting one or more other particles in the plurality of particles. Subsequently, one or more layers are deposited on the cluster of particles with the one or more layers comprising graphene. The plurality of particles are then etched away without substantially etching the deposited one or more layers. Lastly, the remaining one or more layers are dried. The resultant graphene structures are particularly resistant to the negative effects of aggregation and compaction.

Abstract: An article of manufacture comprises an electrically conductive plate and one or more hybrid layers stacked on the electrically conductive plate. Each of the one or more hybrid layers comprises a respective sheet comprising graphene. Each of the one or more hybrid layers also comprises a respective plurality of particles disposed on the respective sheet. Finally, each of the one or more hybrid layers comprises a respective ion conducting film disposed on the respective plurality of particles and the respective sheet.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to a method for forming a graphene composite structure. Initially, an encapsulating film is formed on a substrate. The encapsulating film comprises graphene. Subsequently, a plurality of particles are deposited on the encapsulating film, and then a temporary layer is deposited on the plurality of active particles and the encapsulating film. The substrate is then removed. Lastly, the temporary layer is also removed so as to cause the plurality of particles to form a cluster that is at least partially encapsulated by the encapsulating film.