Graphene is perhaps the last thing on your mind, but if you’re tech-savvy or concerned about the environment, you may find information relating to it highly relevant. Learn more about this thin layer of graphite with the following facts:
1. Graphene Is a Popular Component in Tech Devices
Mobile devices, such as power banks, now use lithium-ion batteries. These kinds are popular for their high energy density. They can store vast amounts of power so you can use your phone for a variety of tasks in between charging. Using lithium-ion also speeds up the charging time of devices.
However, unlike traditional batteries, those containing lithium-ion have a much shorter lifespan in between charges. Research also shows that the material can deteriorate over time.
To make batteries even more efficient, manufacturers are now using and experimenting with graphene. For instance, adding a folded layer of graphene can already boost the energy density of the electronics while keeping the battery light. It is because the material has high conductivity and flexibility.
2. Tesla Is Thinking of Using Graphene for Electric Cars
When you think of electric vehicles, the brand “Tesla” won’t be far behind. According to Statista, the overall market value of e-vehicles is $567 billion. The company that Elon Musk built accounts for at least $9 billion of that.
Tesla already delivered over 350,000 units, making it the leading brand in the electric vehicle segment.
Electric vehicles run on lithium-ion batteries, which make the cars environment-friendly and even cost-efficient. However, they need long hours of charging. Plus, countries like the United States still don’t have enough charging stations.
To solve this problem, the company is thinking of using graphene batteries. With it, an electric vehicle may double the distance it can cover up to 500 miles per charge. It may also increase the output and energy density of lithium-ion batteries.
It’s unclear whether this is pushing through. But knowing Musk, he might surprise everyone. Remember, he already sent a team to the ISS using his company’s tech. In the meantime, you can buy Tesla-powered graphene power banks to give you some idea about how fast and efficient it is.
3. Graphene Is Strong
Graphene is identified as one of the most durable materials in the world, with strength 200 times that of steel. It is even way harder than diamond, which is the hardest of all gemstones. But what does it mean to industries?
Manufacturers can use graphene as a composite, which means they need only a small amount of it to mix with other primary materials. They can then use the composite to coat vehicles, such as aeroplanes and cars.
The construction industry is also looking into the material to strengthen buildings. They can combine it with concrete, for example, to make it not only durable but also water-resistant.
Amazingly, despite the toughness, graphene is lightweight and flexible. It is pliable enough so manufacturers can design it in many shapes.
The World of Science still has a long way to go to maximize the benefits and functions of graphene, but you can already see results such as in the case of power banks.
Either way, one thing is clear: it shows to be a cost-effective, highly reliable material for dozens of industries.
