The principle of electrochemical exfoliation is based on the insertion of either cations or anions from the electrolyte solution into the graphite under an applied voltage. These various methods of exfoliation are performed with either an anodic or cathodic potential. In the event of anodic exfoliation, positive charges accumulate at the anode, which in turn favors the insertion of large anions into the graphite, thereby increasing the interlayer spacing of graphite. On the other hand, cathodic exfoliation deals with the application of a negative voltage. This attracts cations onto the graphite electrode. These intercalate between the graphene layers, expanding and separating them.