The Astonishing Applications of Graphene

Graphene's astounding properties drive innovation across the various fields of science, technology, healthcare, and quantum computing

Stretchable graphene electrode patterns transferred onto a silicon-based polymer. Image provided by Nature

Graphene, consisting of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice, has captivated scientists and engineers alike since its discovery in 2004 at the University of Manchester. This remarkable material boasts extraordinary properties, including exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and thermal conductivity. Over the years, researchers have continued to push the boundaries of graphene's capabilities, leading to exciting discoveries and applications across various fields.

Diagram showing graphene’s many properties. Image provided by Hydrograph

Graphene in Science

In the realm of science, graphene is an invaluable tool. Researchers have used graphene as a base material to develop advanced sensors for detecting gases, biomolecules, and viruses. Graphene's high electrical conductivity allows it to efficiently transfer electrical charges, making it an ideal candidate for biosensors. In biosensor applications, the interaction between biological molecules and graphene's surface leads to changes in electrical conductivity. This phenomenon is thus employed to detect specific molecules, such as viral particles or biomarkers.

For example, a study published in the journal Nature in 2022 showcased a graphene-based sensor capable of detecting COVID-19 in a matter of minutes, demonstrating remarkable accuracy. When the SARS-CoV-2 virus interacts with the surface of graphene, it causes a measurable change in electrical conductivity. This change reveals the presence of the virus, enabling rapid and accurate diagnosis.

Graphene in Technology

Graphene’s many impressive properties also find applications in technology, and more specifically electronics. Graphene-based transistors and conductive materials leverage the material's high electron mobility and thermal conductivity. In electronics, graphene serves as an exceptional conductor of electricity, allowing for high-speed data transmission and efficient power management.

Graphene's role in technology is illustrated in the development of flexible and transparent electronic devices. Here, the material's transparency and flexibility are manipulated to create foldable screens and touch-sensitive interfaces. Recent research, such as a study published in 2017, demonstrated this transparent and flexible graphene-based electronics.

Graphene in Healthcare

In healthcare, graphene has many biomedical applications in drug delivery systems and tissue engineering. Graphene's structure can be modified to carry therapeutic agents and precisely target specific cells or tissues, demonstrating controlled drug delivery that can minimize side effects and enhance the effectiveness of treatments.

In addition, graphene is an ideal scaffold for tissue engineering. Its biocompatibility, high surface area, and mechanical strength make it a suitable material for growing replacement organs and tissues. In this application, graphene provides a supportive structure for the regeneration of damaged or diseased tissues. One such 2023 study demonstrated the use of graphene-based materials in promoting the regeneration of cardiac tissues, offering new possibilities for treating heart diseases.

Graphene in Quantum Computing

Graphene can potentially revolutionize the fundamental building blocks of quantum computers: quantum bits, or qubits. Qubits, the quantum counterparts of classical bits, rely on precise control of quantum states, which graphene facilitates at a quantum level. Graphene-based qubits leverage the material's ability to maintain quantum coherence, which is the property that allows qubits to exist in multiple states simultaneously, enabling quantum computers to perform complex calculations exponentially faster than classical computers. Graphene's high electron mobility makes it so that quantum states within qubits remain stable and coherent over extended periods, a critical requirement for quantum computing.

Quantum computers have the potential to exponentially accelerate computations in fields such as cryptography, material science, and drug discovery. Additionally, quantum computers can precisely simulate quantum systems, aiding the study of molecular structures, quantum materials, and intricate physical phenomena. Quantum algorithms excel at optimization tasks, such as supply chain logistics and financial portfolio management, leading to improved decision-making processes.

As research advances and new discoveries emerge, the potential of this extraordinary material remains boundless. We can anticipate further breakthroughs that will drive computation and innovation.