China graphene market: one step closer to high quality mass production

World
Europe

Ever since the material was first isolated in 2004, researchers around the world have been racing to find the most cost-efficient and effective way to produce high-quality graphene on a large scale. Chinese scientists now say they might be one step closer to achieving its mass production.

Graphene is a carbon-based two-dimensional material, known to be the lightest yet strongest and most dynamic material to date. It is the building block of graphite (most commonly used in pencils), and its composites can be found in things such as drinking water, clothing, sports gear, tires, batteries, aircraft, the ink coating used to power electronics and much more.

CGTN Photo

Whether or not graphene is really as amazing as it is claimed to be, it has been dubbed a "miracle material" and researchers at the second International Carbon Materials Conference and Exposition are determined to explore its full potential.

"Currently there are some 700 graphene companies listed in China, with few big firms mass-producing graphene powder. The majority of the smaller firms are focusing on its application in protective coatings in the heavy industry,” said Xiao Xiaoyue, chairman of Nanjing SCF Nanotechnology Company.

Xiao Xiaoyue, chairman of Nanjing SCF Nanotechnology Company /CGTN Photo

“The manufacturing capability of graphene has been achieved but the actual market needs for graphene application in real products are just beginning to rise," noted Xiao.

With more companies showing interest in graphene, Xiao said its in consumer products needs to be improved to boost market demand and production.

To encourage the manufacturing of graphene-based products, the Chinese government has started to provide insurance coverage for first time applications of new material manufacturing. A research-based data-sharing web platform was also lunched at the event with goals of improving carbon material product development.

"In the long run, we hope through data accumulation that we can improve the understanding and application of graphene, thus creating a smarter path for the development of new technologies," said Zhang Lisheng, Founder of Ningbo DT Research & Consulting.

Zhang Lisheng, Founder of Ningbo DT Research & Consulting /CGTN Photo

With China securing its spot as the world's top graphite supplier and its tech industry growing faster than ever, experts say it is crucial to improve the management of the material in product development, and emphasize on quality over quantity.