Editorial Feature

Graphene Ink and Its Possible Applications

Image Credit: Shawn Hempel/Shutterstock.com

Graphene has been the focal point for many research projects in recent years. It has proved to be one the most diverse materials known to man and recently a team of researchers from Northwestern Engineering have stumbled upon a method of creating graphene ink while trying to discover a new method producing graphene.

Their aim was to preserve the conductivity of graphene by adding low-cost solvents such as ethanol and ethyl cellulose. They managed to create high concentration of graphene flakes and then realized this could be made into ink with further use of solvents.

The new material displayed properties such as good electric conductivity, high flexibility and optical transparency. Developers then started looking at how graphene ink could be used to create wearable / foldable technology.

To prove its versatility, a research team from Cambridge University printed a piano circuit board onto fabric using conductive graphene ink as well as a digital display onto a bendable plastic substrate.

Graphene-based ink

Video Courtesy of Cambridge University YouTube Channel

The team have also proposed that this concept could be used for printing health monitoring circuit boards onto clothing.

Although widespread research is being conducted, many of the graphene ink related concepts are still in the lab. For instance, the Center for Graphene Science at the University of Exeter is working on printing circuits on to smart t-shirts, solar panel films and interactive smart-screens using the ink.

Looking Forward

Researchers are beginning to see the true potential of this amazing material. US-based company, Vorbeck has ventured into making graphene ink products a reality. They supply a range of VOR-INK™ products such as gravure, screen, and flexo that can be applied to using various printing methods onto specific substrates.

Other possible applications include:

  • Printing 3D circuit boards
  • Coatings and smart packaging
  • Heat sinks and sensors
  • Radio-frequency identification (RFID)
  • Plastic electronics, LCDs and flexible displays
  • Catalytic devices and OLED devices
  • E-Paper and transparent electrodes
  • Thin film photovoltaics
  • Electrochemical devices
  • Graphene phone displays that can be printed on human body

Researchers have proved that graphene ink can be printed in multiple layers with a thickness of just 14 nm, so as to create accurate patterns.

Graphene ink could be used to manufacture foldable electronic devices in the foreseeable future. It may also may help in the development of new wearable technology and offer a whole new generation of technology to customers.

References and Further Reading

 

Stuart Milne

Written by

Stuart Milne

Stuart graduated from the University of Wales, Institute Cardiff with a first-class honours degree in Industrial Product Design. After working on a start-up company involved in LED Lighting solutions, Stuart decided to take an opportunity with AZoNetwork. Over the past five years at AZoNetwork, Stuart has been involved in developing an industry leading range of products, enhancing client experience and improving internal systems designed to deliver significant value for clients hard earned marketing dollars. In his spare time Stuart likes to continue his love for art and design by creating art work and continuing his love for sketching. In the future Stuart, would like to continue his love for travel and explore new and exciting places.

Citations

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

  • APA

    Milne, Stuart. (2022, November 08). Graphene Ink and Its Possible Applications. AZoNano. Retrieved on October 13, 2024 from https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=3697.

  • MLA

    Milne, Stuart. "Graphene Ink and Its Possible Applications". AZoNano. 13 October 2024. <https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=3697>.

  • Chicago

    Milne, Stuart. "Graphene Ink and Its Possible Applications". AZoNano. https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=3697. (accessed October 13, 2024).

  • Harvard

    Milne, Stuart. 2022. Graphene Ink and Its Possible Applications. AZoNano, viewed 13 October 2024, https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=3697.

Tell Us What You Think

Do you have a review, update or anything you would like to add to this article?

Leave your feedback
Your comment type
Submit

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.