Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Graphene- The worlds strongest material

Graphene is a super strong substance, and even in thin sheets can resist heavy weight and damage. Graphene is a form of carbon, which is very light and strong, and has the potential for many uses. So far, these are predicted uses:

  1. Cool electronics down, which increases life and efficiency of systems.
  2. Usage in solar panels and batteries.
  3. Lightweight, flexible display screens.
  4. Store energy.
  5. Aid in desalinization. 
  6. It can charge an electric car battery in less than a few hours, potentially cutting fossil fuel needs.
With so many uses, and such unique properties like thermal conduction, electrical conduction, and its extreme strength for size, these are probably just the beginnings of the uses for this "wonder material".

There is a bump on the road, however: Graphene has very sharp edges. This could make it dangerous to humans, as it easily pierces cells, and could  interrupt them. This idea is comparable to asbestos in the lungs, cutting and doing damage, and causing sickness. Scientists will have to find a way to  smooth the edges of the substance, or risk having it be labelled as toxic.

On a personal note, I would love to see this researched more. I imagine it being used in thin computer displays, maybe some sort of spacesuit armor, or even material for military and aerospace use on planes and spaceships. 
Time will tell how Graphene develops, but one thing is certain: If the kinks can be worked out, this material may change the world.

Sources

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