Scientists Discover Graphene’s Potential Achilles Heel

Graphene is known for its properties, which manufacturers and researchers consider when investigating its use in various industrial applications.

Graphene is noted for its thinness, strength, flexibility and high thermal and electrical conductivity. However, recent findings may reduce enthusiasm by indicating that the material can become an environmental pollutant.

The laboratory at the University of California examined the potential negative effects of graphene. The study found that graphene oxide nanoparticles do not break down easily in rivers or lakes and may persist, travelling considerable distances. The investigation focused on the behaviour of graphene in both groundwater and surface water, and on its impact on organisms. In surface waters the nanoparticles remain stable and may travel long distances; consequently, their mobility in such environments increases and they may have adverse environmental effects.

When graphene enters groundwater, which typically contains higher mineral content and fewer organic substances, the material degrades rapidly, becomes unstable and either settles or is removed from the water. In surface water graphene remains stable and becomes readily dispersed. Another study reported that once graphene is absorbed into the body, it may penetrate cells and cause cellular damage.

Graphene materials may be accidentally inhaled or introduced into the body for biomedical purposes. Therefore, it is necessary to understand how graphene interacts with other cells in the human body. It was previously assumed that graphene occurs in idealised flat sheets. However, the research team indicated that graphene may fragment into smaller pieces; consequently, these fragments might interact with human cells and be absorbed by the body.

The study did not establish what occurs when graphene particles remain in water for extended periods, nor did it examine the effects of absorption into the human body. The effects of long-term graphene exposure remain unclear. Prior to the widespread use of graphene, further research is required to determine if it is toxic to the environment and the human body.