Nanomaterials like graphene could revolutionise every aspect of our lives, from medicine to computing. The Graphene Flagship initiative has achieved substantial outcomes, including the creation of new companies and novel graphene-based products ranging from lubricating oils to advanced cameras.
Made up of a carbon layer just one atom thick, graphene is incredibly light, stronger than diamond and good at conducting electricity and heat. No wonder scientists and engineers have been busy at work developing graphene into a wide range of faster, thinner, stronger and more flexible products.
To capitalise on this potential, the Graphene Flagship was launched in 2013 as a decade-long initiative. It involves over 178 academic and industrial research partners from 23 countries in multiple projects.
The initiative places Europe at the forefront of graphene nanotechnology,
a branch of science and engineering devoted to tiny structures at dimensions of around 100 millionth of a millimetre.
Notable applications developed by the partners include high-speed photonic switches for 5G communications, de-icing components for airplanes, and a lubricating oil that reduces friction, heat and wear in engine parts.
In the medical sector, artificial retina implants could help restore vision to blind patients. Graphene-based products for monitoring and stimulating brain activity could help treat severe chronic diseases.
Experiments with the European Space Agency tested graphene under zero-gravity conditions. This research demonstrated its potential for the propulsion of spacecraft and satellites and to manage onboard temperatures.
The partners are moving to develop a working pilot line which will produce 2D materials and have contributed to the proposal to form a public-private partnership to advance the use of advanced materials such as graphene.
The Graphene Flagship will have contributed €3.8 billion in Europe’s GDP from 2014 to 2030 and helped to create 38 400 jobs
according to an impact report by the independent WifOR Institute. The Graphene Flagship continues its journey in a new form under Horizon Europe.
More information
Read more about the Graphene Flagship
And in Horizon Magazine
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