Graphene Composites: The Fundamentals
Graphene is a 2D material made of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice which creates unique and powerful properties capable of transforming and disrupting global industries. When graphene is added to a base material, it imparts desirable properties including strength, flexibility, resilience, elongation, thermal and electrical conductivity as needed.
Here is a summary of graphene’s main attributes applicable to composites:
One atom's worth of graphene is all that separates it from being a flat sheet. Strong covalent connections between the carbon atoms in the sheet form a lattice that resembles a honeycomb.
Graphene is exceptionally strong mechanically. It is one of the strongest materials yet discovered, with a tensile strength 200x stronger than steel. Additionally, due to its great degree of flexibility, it may be stretched without cracking.
Graphene is a super electrical conductor. It has a high electron mobility, which reduces the resistance faced by electrons as they flow through the structure. It is suitable to be used in electronics components.
The heat conductivity of graphene is very good. Graphene is advantageous for applications in thermal management, such as heat sinks or thermal interface materials.
Due to its adaptability and 2D structure, graphene may be incorporated into a variety of polymer matrices, targeting improved flexibility in the production process.
Graphene reinforcement can improve the polymer's ability to act as a gas and liquid barrier.
Applications for Graphene Composites
Sparc's Expertise with Graphene Composites
Sparc has developed expertise and know how in the ability to add graphene to polymers typically employed in the composites industry. Sparc has joined Swinburne University in a collaborative research program aimed at delivering smart composites, i.e., enhanced polymeric systems with electrical properties that allow for remote performance monitoring in real time.
Memberships
