MIT researchers develop a way to mass produce Graphene

ENGINEERS at MIT have successfully manufactured long strips of high-quality graphene, which, if scaled industrially, could potentially revolutionise the production of technology and health devices.

Graphene is a thin layer of pure carbon that forms a hexagonal shape. It is typically applied in batteries, polymers used in aerospace and wind energy technologies, sensors, in mechanical cardiovascular valves and cancer treatment, as well as in paints due to its anti-corrosive properties.

However, the production of graphene is costly, which is why it is manufactured in small batches only. A breakthrough study published in the journal Applied Materials and Interfaces demonstrated that graphene can be manufactured in large quantities as ultrathin membranes in a roll-to-roll approach.

In roll-to-roll or end-to-end approach, it starts with attaching two spools to a conveyor that runs through a hot furnace. Then, the researchers manufactured graphene through a process called chemical vapour deposition.

A sample of copper foil is then heated before a combination of carbon and other gases are added to it. Graphene is an impervious material that even the smallest of atoms like helium cannot penetrate. Experts believe that harnessing graphene could open up new possibilities and even replace old or existing technologies.