Graphene, a single sheet of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional (2D) honeycomb crystal lattice, has been the subject of intense research and commercial interest over the past few years. This work has paved the way for other 2D materials such as germanene, silicene, hexagonal-boron nitride, phosphorene, complex oxides and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). These materials have been successively prepared using the micromechanical exfoliation technique employed for graphene. Researchers are now looking to design devices featuring combination of these materials rather than isolated 2D crystals to greatly enhance device properties and design flexibility. For example, the well-known limitations of opening the bandgap in graphene and its limited capability in switching applications may be overcome through the use of other 2D crystals with a sizable bandgap. This could lead to a new generation of mutl-functional devices with vastly improved speed, flexibility and stability. In this month’s issue we focus on commercialization of graphene in two key target markets, transparent conductive films and conductive inks. We also investigate graphene development in China, where substantial government funding has created a large production base for graphene nanoplatelets and graphene films.
Articles
Graphene in transparent conductive films
Novel materials with complex functionalities are crucial for the future development of flexible and wearable electronic devices.
Graphene conductive inks
Graphene conductive inks have been commercially available for a number of years, graphene-based conductive inks are promising candidates for application in printable electronics.
Graphene in China
The Chinese government has poured investment into the commercialization of graphene over the past five years. Has it paid off?
Plus
All the latest 2D materials research and business news.
