Electrons Frozen Yet Free: A Quantum Breakthrough in Graphene

[Vmedvil]

It seems there has been a quantum breakthrough in graphene, read more at https://scitechdaily.com/electrons-frozen-yet-free-a-quantum-breakthrough-in-graphene/

 

What do you think are some applications on this breakthrough in graphene?

[OceanBreeze]

Many people, myself included, may be confused about the difference between graphene and graphite. I also wondered why it has taken scientists so long to discover that a 2D slice of the stuff that fills their pencils, has such exceptional properties? Both graphite and graphene have carbon atoms as their structural components. The difference is how the free valence electron in graphene participates in forming a π bond. That seemingly small difference makes graphene the strongest material known to exist, with a Tensile strength of 130 GPa!

 

Graphene:

Graphene stands out as having exceptional properties such has ultrahigh surface area and excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. These properties arise from it's 2D nature and π bonding network.

Graphene's ultrahigh surface area (~2600 m2/g ) means it would take only 2.7 g to cover a football field. It is therefore useful in surface active applications, including energy storage, sensors and water purification.

Graphene's electrical conductivity as a result of the delocalised π electrons is many orders of magnitude larger than silicon (1.56×102 S/m) which is commonly used in electronic devices. It's thermal conductivity is also outstanding making it suitable for applications in thermal management, such as heat sinks and electronic cooling systems.

 

Graphite:

Graphite is most commonly used in pencils but it can be used for much more. Due to the weak van der Waals interactions between the layers within graphite, it has excellent lubricating properties. It has been used as a dry lubricant and in lubricating greases.

Graphite maintains a significant amount of the thermal and electronic conductive properties that graphene has. It is far more accessible than 2D graphene which requires more intensive processing to access. It's layered honeycomb structure allows for efficient intercalation and deintercalation of lithium ions, contributing to high energy density and long lithium-ion battery life. Graphite is also good in heat management applications. Graphite's inert nature means it is corrosion resistant which is highly desired in electronic applications to maintain performance.