Graphene

In simple terms, graphene, is a thin layer of pure carbon; it is a single, tightly packed
layer of carbon atoms that are bonded together in a hexagonal honeycomb lattice. In
more complex terms, it is an allotrope of carbon in the structure of a plane of sp2
bonded atoms with a molecule bond length of 0.142 nanometres. Layers of graphene
stacked on top of each other form graphite, with an interplanar spacing of 0.335
nanometres.
It is the thinnest compound known to man at one atom thick, the lightest material
known (with 1 square meter coming in at around 0.77 milligrams), the strongest
compound discovered (between 100-300 times stronger than steel and with a tensile
stiffness of 150,000,000 psi), the best conductor of heat at room temperature (at
(4.840.44) 10^3 to (5.300.48) 10^3 Wm1K1) and also the best conductor
of electricity known (studies have shown electron mobility at values of more than
15,000 cm2V1s1). Other notable properties of graphene are its unique levels of
light absorption at 2.3% of white light, and its potential suitability for use in spin
transport.
Graphene. The world's first 2D material. Since its isolation in 2004 it has captured the
attention of scientists and researchers worldwide. It is ultra-light, yet immensely
tough. It is 200 times stronger than steel, but is incredibly flexible. It is fire resistant
yet retains heat. It is a superb conductor, but not even helium can pass through it.
When graphene is used alone or combined with other materials or substances
the possibilities are infinite. It is a young material with the potential to create
incredible future technologies and vastly enhance existing products.
Graphene could revolutionise medicine. Nanotechnology is set to transform
medical procedures. Drugs could be delivered to specific targeted cells. Graphene
could pave the way for a step change in the treatment of cancer and conditions such as
Parkinson's.
Graphene has enormous potential when used as a membrane to separate
liquids. It could see huge progress in water purification and treatment in developing
countries, and even provide more efficient desalination plants.
Graphene can make the world a safer place. In aircraft technology and cars.
Through clothing for the defence industry.
Graphene conducts. It means advanced paints could both reduce corrosion and
increase energy efficiency.

Graphene detects. It could create sensors that can detect even minute traces of gases
or dangerous chemicals, or sustainable food packaging that can let you know when
food has gone off.
Graphene absorbs light and retains it as energy. Add this to its strength and flexibility
and bendable mobile phones and cameras with enormous battery life are ever closer.
So are wearable electronics, clothing that communicates. These are future
technologies which are becoming realistic in our present.
Graphene has low weight and high strength. Harnessed with polymers and composites
it could make numerous forms of transport safer and more fuel efficient.
This is only the start. These are only the first steps. The potential of graphene is
limited only by our imagination.