A process for the production of nano-structures is presented, involving providing a graphite flake comprising graphene layers; intercalating the graphite flake to form a graphite intercalation compound exhibiting Stage I, II or III intercalation; and exfoliating the graphite intercalation compound by exposing it to a temperature between about 1600° C. and about 2400° C. such that a plurality of individual graphene layers are separated from the graphite intercalation compound.