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: The invention provides improved paper-like electrodes and electrode active materials for use in flexible energy storage devices, and methods for preparing such electrodes and materials, as well as flexible energy storage devices fabricated from such electrodes and materials and methods of making such devices. The electrodes and electrode active materials comprise multi-layer high-quality thin carbon films, and the methods comprise the use of a repetitive laminar process to deposit such films directly on polymer separators or electrolyte membranes.

Abstract: Improved methods for synthesizing large area thin films are disclosed, which result in films of enhanced width. The methods comprise providing a separator material which is rolled or wound up, along with the metallic foil substrate on which the thin film is to be deposited, to form a coiled composite which is then subjected to conventional chemical vapor deposition. Optionally, a winding tool may be used to aid in the rolling process. The methods enable a many-fold increase in the effective width of the substrate to be achieved.