What is graphene?

Graphene, as a single layer of atoms of Carbon arranged in a honeycomb structure without defects, is more a theoretical material than a real/physical one. In an industrial world it is impossible to produce it. Other materials similar and easier to produce at large scale are presented on the market as graphene. To differentiate them, scientists put in place a graphene nomenclature.

Graphene has exceptional properties making it a candidate for enhancing a tremendous number of applications ! It would take hours to list it all but here are some of the main applications : Since it behaves as a perfect barrier to gas and liquid, it can be used to protect surfaces from environnemental agressions such as corrosion or non-aqueous fluids. With its great thermal and mechanical properties, it can enhance materials when toughness or thermal management are needed while keeping its lightness.

Graphene is only composed of carbon, like diamond, graphite, and amorphous carbon. However, graphene is a 2d material where one single layer of carbon atoms – that is less than a nanometer, one hundred thousand time thinner than a hair -, is arranged in a honeycomb structure. This sets it apart from other carbon forms because its unique structure leads to exceptional properties.