Graphene

Why in news?

• India Innovation Centre for Graphene to come up in Kerala soon

About Graphene:

• It is a single layer (monolayer) of carbon atoms (one atom thick).  It is the building-block of Graphite.
• It is harder than diamond yet more elastic than rubber; tougher than steel yet lighter than aluminium.  Graphene is the strongest known material.
• Its thin composition and high conductivity means it is used in applications ranging from miniaturized electronics to biomedical devices.
• These properties also enable thinner wire connections; providing extensive benefits for computers, solar panels, batteries, sensors and other devices.

Other Properties of Graphene:

• Lowest resistivity at room temperature.
• High thermal stability
• High elasticity
• High electrical conductivity
• Electron mobility is high at room temperature.

Applications:

• Graphene is widely used in making solar cells, light-emitting diodes, touch panels and smart windows.
• Graphene super capacitors serve as energy storage devices with a capacity for faster charging and longer life span than traditional electrolytic batteries.
• Graphene oxide (GO) membranes can be used to filter common salt from seawater.
• Other potential applications of graphene include sensors, personalised healthcare and medicine (drug delivery etc.), making tennis racquets etc.
• It is also used in lubricants, paints, functional fluids etc.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding ‘Graphene’:

1. It has good electrical conductivity

2. It is harder than diamond

3. It is widely used in making solar cells

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1,2 and 3

Answer