Graphene

Graphene: Journey to Adoption

Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon material, possesses remarkable properties such as high strength, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. These properties have led to numerous potential applications in various industries, including electronics, energy storage, sensors, and more. However, despite its promising characteristics, there are several reasons why graphene has not yet fully met market demands:

1. Manufacturing Challenges: The large-scale production of high-quality graphene is still a significant challenge. Current production methods often result in small quantities or low-quality graphene sheets, making it difficult to meet the demands of various industries. The scalability and cost-effectiveness of graphene production remain key obstacles.
2. Standardization and Quality Control: Establishing standardized methods for characterizing and evaluating graphene is crucial for industry-wide adoption. The lack of consistent quality control measures makes it challenging for potential end-users to compare and select graphene products. Standardization efforts are ongoing, but they take time to develop and implement.
3. Cost: Graphene production processes are relatively expensive compared to traditional materials. The cost of graphene needs to be reduced significantly to make it economically viable for large-scale applications. As production techniques evolve and economies of scale are realized, the cost is expected to decrease.
4. Integration into Existing Technologies: Incorporating graphene into existing manufacturing processes or products often requires significant modifications and research and development efforts. This adds to the time and cost required for commercial adoption, hindering its rapid integration into various industries.
5. Regulatory Challenges: The introduction of any new material into the market requires regulatory compliance and approval. Graphene is no exception. Its unique properties and potential health and safety considerations necessitate comprehensive testing and regulation, which can slow down its adoption and commercialization.
6. Lack of Application-specific Solutions: While graphene has incredible potential, the development of specific applications and solutions tailored to market needs is still in progress. Industries require tailored graphene-based materials and technologies to address their specific challenges effectively.

Despite these challenges, research and development in the field of graphene continues, and progress is being made to overcome these barriers. As advancements are made in production techniques, quality control, cost reduction, and application-specific solutions, graphene is expected to better meet market demands in the future.

Graphene: Application sector / 1 – Lubrificant and advanced greases

Adding graphene to lubricating greases can significantly enhance their properties. Graphene acts as a reinforcement, increasing the strength of the lubricating oil and reducing the wear of moving surfaces. This can lead to improved durability and performance of mechanical parts that require lubrication.

Moreover, graphene can enhance the heat dissipation capacity of the lubricating grease. Due to its high thermal conductivity, graphene can help dissipate the heat generated during the operation of high-temperature machinery, thus reducing the risk of overheating and damage to the parts.

Several research and development efforts have been undertaken to exploit the properties of graphene in lubricating greases. However, it is important to note that the commercial application of these materials may require further studies and optimization. Research on graphene’s applications in lubrication is still ongoing, and new developments in the field may emerge in the future.

Graphene: Application sector / 2 – Antifouling Varnish

Antifouling paints without the use of biocides like copper or other toxic substances for dispersion are typically composed of a combination of various components. Here are some of the common ingredients found in these paints:

Resin matrix: Biocide-free antifouling paints are based on special resins, such as epoxy or polyurethane resins. These resins provide the base of the paint and confer adhesive and protective properties.

Pigments: Specific pigments are used to impart antifouling properties to the paint. For instance, copper, zinc, or silicone-based pigments can be used to hinder the growth of marine organisms on the boat’s hull.

Fillers: Materials like talc, silica, or glass microspheres are often added as fillers to improve the strength and durability of the paint.

Additives: Various additives may be used to enhance the performance of the paint. For example, there may be additives that regulate adhesion, appearance, viscosity, or UV resistance.

Solvents: Solvents are used to dilute the paint and facilitate its application. In recent years, efforts have been made to reduce solvent usage in compliance with environmental regulations, so many biocide-free antifouling paints are water-based.

Graphene, a remarkable material composed of a single layer of carbon atoms, has shown tremendous potential in various fields. When incorporated into antifouling paints, graphene can offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to harmful substances used for preventing marine growth on boat hulls.

Graphene’s unique properties, such as its high surface area and exceptional mechanical strength, allow it to act as an effective barrier against fouling organisms. It can create a smooth, non-stick surface that inhibits the attachment and growth of marine organisms, preventing biofouling without the need for toxic biocides like copper or other harmful chemicals.

Additionally, graphene’s excellent thermal and electrical conductivity properties enable the paint to function optimally, providing enhanced performance and stability. Moreover, the integration of graphene into antifouling paints could lead to longer-lasting coatings, reducing the frequency of reapplications and further minimizing environmental impacts.

By harnessing the potential of graphene, we can revolutionize the antifouling industry and promote greener, more sustainable practices that safeguard marine ecosystems and preserve our oceans for future generations.

Graphene: Application sector / 3 – Lubrificant coolants for machining

A type of ceramic composite material TiB2/TiC reinforced with graphene nanosheets has been fabricated through spark plasma sintering. The effects of graphene nanosheets on microstructure, mechanical properties, and hardening mechanisms have been studied. The results indicated that TiB2/TiC with 0.1% weight fraction of graphene nanosheets sintered at 1800°C for 5 minutes achieved complete densification and optimal mechanical properties. The fracture toughness and Vickers hardness were measured at 7.9 ± 1.2 MPa m1/2 and 20.0 ± 0.7 GPa, respectively. The excess graphene nanosheets did not contribute to further improvements in toughness. Fracture toughness was increased by 31.7% compared to TiB2/TiC without graphene nanosheets, primarily attributed to crack bridging.

Inconel 718 is difficult to machine due to its high toughness and hardenability. Although cutting fluids alleviate the issue, they are not sustainable. Thus, supplying a small amount of specialized coolant to the machining zone or using a solid lubricant may be a potential solution. The aim of this work is to enhance the machinability of Inconel 718 using graphene nanosheets.

Design/Method/Approach:
In this study, graphene is employed in the machining of Inconel 718. Graphene is applied in two forms: as a solid lubricant and as an inclusion in cutting fluid. Self-lubricating tools based on graphene and graphene-added nanofluids are prepared and applied in turning Inconel 718 at various cutting speeds. Performance is compared by measuring cutting forces, cutting temperature, tool wear, and surface roughness.

Results:
Graphene, in both forms, exhibited superior performance compared to dry machining. In particular, 0.3% weight fraction of graphene added to nanofluids showed lower cutting tool temperature and flank wear with a decrease of 44.95% and 83.37%, respectively, compared to dry machining, and lower surface roughness, reduced to 0.424 times that of dry machining at 87 m/min.

Originality/Value:
Graphene shows potential for improving the machinability of Inconel 718 when used as a solid lubricant and as a dispersant in cutting fluid. The use of graphene as a dispersant in cutting fluid proved to be more effective.

Moreover, the antibacterial action of graphene has been proven, which can extend the lifespan of the lubricant coolants to which it is added.

Graphene: Application sector / 4 – Concrete additive

A list of some of the benefits of adding graphene to concrete:

Increase in compression strength by 146%: This means that graphene-reinforced concrete can withstand greater pressure without breaking or collapsing.

Increase in flexural strength by 79.5%: This indicates that concrete with graphene is more flexible and can endure greater deformation before breaking or bending.

Decrease in the maximum displacement due to compression by 78%: Graphene-infused concrete undergoes less deformation under compression loads, maintaining its original shape better than standard concrete.

Improvement in electrical and thermal performance: The addition of graphene enhances the concrete’s ability to conduct heat and electricity, making it useful for applications requiring improved thermal efficiency or electrical properties.

Decrease in water permeability by 400%: This property is particularly advantageous in constructions exposed to humid environments or prone to flooding since graphene concrete is less permeable to water compared to traditional concrete, thus improving its durability.

All these advantages make graphene-reinforced concrete a highly promising composite material for various applications in the construction industry, especially in situations where high performance and long-lasting durability are required.

Graphene: Application sector / 5 – Advanced Composite Carbon-Carbon

Carbon-carbon composites, often abbreviated as C-C, are advanced materials known for their exceptional mechanical and thermal properties. These materials consist mainly of carbon fibers woven within a carbon matrix, giving them a unique combination of strength, lightness, and high-temperature resistance. However, despite their superior performance, C-C composites present some significant challenges, including high costs and complexity in manufacturing.

One of the primary reasons for the elevated costs of carbon-carbon composites is related to the high-quality materials used in their production. High-strength carbon fibers and carbon matrices undergo highly sophisticated and controlled manufacturing processes, leading to a substantial increase in production costs. Additionally, the relatively limited demand for C-C composites and low production volume can contribute to higher unit costs.

Another cost factor is the intricacy of the processing. The production of C-C composites requires a combination of advanced technologies such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and high-temperature sintering. These processes demand specialized equipment and close supervision throughout each stage of production, further driving up manufacturing costs.

Despite the high costs, carbon-carbon composites continue to find applications in high-performance and technologically advanced sectors. Their unique characteristics make them ideal for aerospace, missile, and aviation applications, where lightness and thermal resistance are crucial. However, efforts are being made to develop more efficient production processes and reduce associated costs, aiming to make these materials more accessible for various industrial applications.

In conclusion, carbon-carbon composites are extraordinary materials with exceptional mechanical and thermal properties. Nevertheless, their high costs and production complexity pose significant challenges for their widespread adoption across diverse applications. Nonetheless, ongoing endeavors to enhance technology and cost reduction are progressively making these materials more attainable and prevalent in various high-performance industrial sectors.

In our cutting-edge laboratory, we are currently exploring an exceptionally innovative approach to create a carbon-carbon composite, transcending the conventional techniques. This advanced methodology involves the strategic integration of graphene and other specialized additives, acting as unique binders.

Under the pursuit of scientific curiosity and technological progress, we are unraveling the mysteries that lie at the intersection of carbon fibers and graphene. By amalgamating these elements in a singular and seamless process, we aspire to achieve a revolutionary leap in composite material engineering.

This scientific endeavor necessitates precision and meticulousness, as we meticulously orchestrate the conditions to facilitate the seamless fusion of carbon fibers and graphene. Through the harmonious interaction of temperature, pressure, and time, we aim to achieve a composite with unprecedented mechanical strength, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity.

While the quest for perfection is not without challenges, our dedicated team of researchers remains resolute in unlocking the full potential of this novel technique. The road may be uncharted, but the promise of a more accessible and high-performance carbon-carbon composite beckons, leaving behind the high costs and complexities of traditional methods.

As we continue our journey of discovery, the implications of this ground-breaking approach are profound. From aerospace applications to advanced engineering solutions, the realm of possibilities expands as we stand on the precipice of a transformative advancement in materials science.

While we tread this path with cautious optimism, the future holds the promise of a more sustainable, efficient, and enigmatic world of carbon-carbon composites. The secrets within our laboratory walls will soon be unveiled, ushering in a new era of technological prowess and innovation.