Graphene: The Next Wonder Material

Graphen is recognised as a material with significant potential. Researchers in this field received the Nobel Prize in 2010. Its properties may lead to improved electronic components. Graphene-based materials may be incorporated in devices that detect bacteria. Mobile phones with enhanced flexibility may also be developed.

Graphene is a two-dimensional crystal that is one atom thick. The carbon atoms form a hexagonal lattice with uniform distribution. Its thickness is approximately 0.3 nanometres, with an interatomic spacing of about 0.1 nanometres. It conducts electricity more efficiently than copper. It is the thinnest material known. Its flexibility and mechanical strength exceed those of rubber, steel and diamond.

Several proposed applications of graphene concern electronics and computer systems. It can be used in transistors to create high-speed circuits, and it may perform better than silicon in microchips. Research in China demonstrated that graphene kills E. coli bacteria. Its two-dimensional nature enables the detection of individual gas molecules. When a gas molecule attaches to a graphene sheet, the electrical resistance changes accordingly. Consequently, this property may be applied in sensors for detecting microbes.

Commercialisation of graphene faces several challenges. There is currently no standard method for the mass production of graphene. The lack of a reproducible synthesis process restricts its availability on the mass market. Uncertainties regarding its electrical characteristics require further research. Given that these issues are resolved, graphene may alter the fields of electronics, construction and medicine over the coming decades.