Growth of graphene on tantalum and its protective properties

The mechanism of graphene growth on tantalum has been studied. It has been demonstrated that graphene growth occurs through the formation of tantalum carbide, which exhibits catalytic properties towards cracking of hydrocarbons. We found that excessive carbon, not involved in carbide formation, forms self-limiting layer of graphene on the surface. The layer of tantalum carbide and graphene provides an efficient protective layer against chemical corrosion and high temperature oxidation.