Topics Covered
GrapheneMulti-Layer Graphene
Applications for Multi-Layer Graphene
Electronics
Applications of Graphene
Potential Applications of Multi-Layer Graphene
The Future of Graphene and Multi-Layer Graphene
About SkySpring Nanomaterials
Graphene
Graphene is a member of the class of two-dimensional materials discovered by Professor Andre Geim’s research group at the University of Manchester. Dr. Geim together with one of his main research partners (at the time a Doctoral student of Geim’ s), Konstantin Novoselov, was able to discover a simple method for isolating single atomic layers of graphite (graphene) This graphene consists of a one atom thick layer of carbon atoms arranged in two-dimensional hexagons. The result is not only the thinnest material in the world but also one of the strongest and hardest.
Multi-Layer Graphene
Simply stated, multi-layer graphene consists of multiple-layers of single layers of graphene. Some of the differences are the thermal conductivity of multi-layer graphene decreases as the material gets thicker, according to researchers in the US. Although the thermal conductivity decreases, the research shows that even up to four atomic layers of graphene still outperform bulk copper at cooling of computer chips. This is just one of many changes as the layers are added and the properties of the multi-layer change from 2D to 3D. The physical properties have also been found to decreases as well.
Applications for Multi-Layer Graphene
Electronics
Graphene, as explained earlier consists of a 2D hexagonal lattice of carbon atoms. Each atom is covalently bonded to three others, but since carbon has four valence electrons, one is left free – allowing graphene to conduct electricity. Unlike an ordinary metal, in which any impurities in the crystal scatter electrons and so lead to energy loss, the electrical resistance in graphene is independent of the number of impurities. This means that electrons can travel for many microns without colliding with any impurities, making graphene a promising material for potential high-speed electronic switching devices called a “ballistic transistors”.
Multi-layer graphene doesn’t perform as well as the single-layer but it is much easier to produce than single layers of the material and could be ideal for removing heat from electronic components, like those used in computer chips. Unwanted heat is a big problem in modern devices that are based on conventional silicon. The problems get worse as devices become ever smaller.
In the short term graphene could be used in applications such as thermal interface materials for chip packaging or transparent electrodes in photovoltaics. As the material becomes more widely available in larger quantities in the future it might be used in conjunction with silicon in computers. The dream of large-scale use of multi-layer graphene electronics may still be a ways off but it’s closer than we realize.
Applications of Graphene
Below are some of the interesting applications of graphene:
- Flexible touch-screen displays for mobile devices
- LCD Smart Windows
- Single-molecule Sensors
- Composite Materials
- Integrated circuits and nano-electronics
- Photovoltaics (Solar Cells)
- Saturable Absorber for Ultrafast Pulsed Lasers
Potential Applications of Multi-Layer Graphene
Some interesting applications for multi-layer graphene include:
- Photovoltaics (Solar Cells)
- Chip Packaging
- Integrated Circuits
The Future of Graphene and Multi-Layer Graphene
There has been much written about how amazing graphene is, and there have literally been thousands of papers written about it. The applications are endless for this super-conductive, lightweight, flexible, and incredibly strong material. Where the applications increase, there is no doubt, so will the commercial availability especially in core areas such as batteries, solar and electronics. As of this writing single layer graphene is quite expensive. Where single layer graphene is expensive, multi-layer graphene comes at a lesser cost and is more affordable for commercial applications. As supply and pricing change this trend may change as well but right now there is greater commercial viability for the multi-layer graphene.
About SkySpring Nanomaterials
SkySpring Nanomaterials is located in Houston, Texas. At SkySpring their mission is to provide top-of-the-line quality in the research, manufacturing, and distribution of specialty of high purity metal and chemical products such as Graphene Nanopowders. For more information on SkySpring Nanomaterials and the materials they sell and distribute please call 281-870-8002, sales@ssnano.com or find them on the internet at www.ssnano.com
Fonte: Azonano
