Self-assembly of multilayered functional films based on graphene oxide sheets for controlled release

A novel kind of antimicrobial composite film comprised of graphene oxide sheets and lysozyme was fabricated by a facile solution-cast method. Self-assembly of the sheets endows the film with a multilayered ordered structure with protein molecules intercalated between adjacent layers. Precise control of the protein amount within the film was achieved for a controlled releasing dynamics of the composite in water. Being exfoliated from the substrate, the film can be transferred and used as a free-standing antimicrobial coating. This unique blend provides a practical method for the development of multifunctional nanocomposite materials.