In a breakthrough that could revolutionize the energy sector, researchers have developed a simple, low-cost method to create high-performance, multifunctional graphene films. These films, with their exceptional properties, could significantly impact electrical conduction, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, electric heating, thermal management, and even infrared stealth technologies.
The research, led by Weinan Gao from the State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology at Yanshan University in China, presents a pioneering approach to fabricate flexible, ultra-thin graphene aggregate (GAs) pressed films with high orientation. The method involves constructing oriented GAs foams and then compressing them mechanically in one direction. This process results in films that are not only flexible but also highly oriented, offering a range of impressive properties.
One of the most striking features of these films is their electrical conductivity, which reaches up to 5.349 × 105 S/m. This high conductivity is coupled with an exceptional EMI shielding effectiveness of 106.2 dB, making these films highly effective in blocking electromagnetic interference. “The combination of high electrical conductivity and excellent EMI shielding makes these films ideal for applications in the energy sector, where efficient power transmission and signal integrity are crucial,” Gao explains.
The films also exhibit remarkable thermal management capabilities. With an in-plane thermal conductivity of 768.2 W·m−1·K−1, they can efficiently dissipate heat, which is vital for the performance and longevity of electronic devices and power systems. Additionally, the films show low infrared emissivity, making them suitable for infrared stealth applications.
Another notable feature is their electric heating performance. The films can reach temperatures up to 256.70°C at an extremely low driving voltage of 1.7 V. This property opens up new possibilities for energy-efficient heating solutions in various industries.
The simplicity and low cost of the fabrication process are particularly noteworthy. Traditional methods for creating high-performance graphene films often involve complex steps and high costs, which hinder their large-scale practical application. Gao’s method addresses these challenges, making it a significant step forward in the field.
The research, published in the journal ‘Materials & Design’ (translated as ‘材料与设计’ in Chinese), highlights the potential of these multifunctional graphene films to shape future developments in the energy sector and beyond. As the demand for efficient, cost-effective, and versatile materials continues to grow, this breakthrough could pave the way for innovative solutions in various industries.
The implications of this research are vast. From improving the efficiency of power transmission systems to enhancing the performance of electronic devices and enabling advanced stealth technologies, the applications of these high-performance graphene films are diverse and promising. As the energy sector continues to evolve, such advancements in materials science will play a crucial role in driving progress and innovation.
In the words of Gao, “This flexible ultra-thin GAs pressed film holds great promise as a multi-functional material due to its excellent performance in various key areas. We believe that this research will open up new avenues for the practical application of graphene-based materials in the energy sector and beyond.”