New step towards graphene applications

Researchers of the AMBER (Advanced Materials and BioEngineering Research) Centre at Trinity College Dublin have developed a new process to mass produce graphene-based material.

The method – which promises to be simple and affordable – could be used by industries for applications such as highly efficient batteries. The research team participates in the Graphene FET Flagship, a €1bn EU initiative to boost new technologies and innovation during the next ten years.

Neelie Kroes, European Commission Vice-President responsible for the Digital Agenda, welcomed the progress made: “From lighter aircraft to better batteries, graphene truly is the new ‘wonder material’. By getting top European researchers and businesses to work together, we can ensure Europe takes the lead. This is the EU investing in an innovative future.”

Graphene will enable new applications and products in a whole range of industries, including high speed printable consumer electronics, and highly efficient energy storage solutions, such as lightweight and rapidly rechargeable batteries for portable devices and electric cars. It can also be used as an alternative precious materials in chemical processes, such as platinum.

Some applications for the material are set to become close to market with research undertaken by the AMBER research team at the CRANN Institute, Trinity College Dublin. The team, led by Professor Jonathan Coleman – a grantee of the European Research Council – has developed a new method to mass produce graphene-based material.