Graphene is a two-dimensional material that was first discovered in 2004 by scientists at the University of Graphene Research Center (UGC) in Paris, France. It is composed of layers of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice structure, giving it unique properties that make it ideal for use in a wide range of applications.
(what is graphene: aravind vijayaraghavan, pdf)
One of the most important features of graphene is its high electrical conductivity. This means that it can carry electricity with minimal resistance, making it an ideal material for use in electronic devices such as solar cells and batteries. Additionally, graphene has a high surface area to volume ratio, which allows it to be used as a carrier material for carrying electrons.
Another significant property of graphene is its thermal conductivity. Unlike traditional materials like metal or ceramic, graphene does not have a significant temperature coefficient, meaning that it maintains its electrical conductivity over a wide range of temperatures. This makes it particularly useful for use in cooling systems, as it can help regulate the temperature of electronic devices without losing efficiency.
Graphene is also highly flexible and lightweight, making it well-suited for use in medical devices and aerospace applications. Its strength-to-weight ratio is extremely high, making it strong enough to withstand the stresses experienced during flight, while still being lightweight enough to allow for efficient movement of tissues and organs.
In addition to these practical applications, graphene has also been studied for its potential as a fundamental material in physics and chemistry. Researchers have used graphene to study the behavior of quantum particles and to develop new materials with novel properties.
(what is graphene: aravind vijayaraghavan, pdf)
Overall, graphene has many promising applications across a wide range of fields, from electronics to medicine to aerospace engineering. With its unique combination of electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties, it has become one of the most exciting and rapidly developing materials in science today.
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