Technology of Low-Layer Graphene Production

Our low-layer graphene dispersions are obtained through a patented method that involves the dispersion of graphite at resonant frequencies.

Resonance is a physical phenomenon in which a system begins to oscillate with maximum amplitude in response to an external force with a certain frequency that matches its own (natural) frequency. In the context of producing low-layer graphene dispersions using acoustic resonance, this means the following:

Acoustic resonance generates strong vibrational waves in the dispersion medium (such as water with dissolved components). These vibrations are efficiently transferred to the graphite particles, causing intense mechanical stress. As a result, the graphite breaks into separate thin sheets, creating low-layer graphene without significant damage.

We chose this method of graphene production based on theoretical assumptions regarding the differences in properties between elemental and low-layer graphene, with a preference for non-elemental graphene.

The properties of low-layer graphene produced by our innovative method confirm the theoretical justifications for several advantages of the resulting graphene, as listed below:

1. Advantages of Low-Layer Graphene Compared to Elemental Graphene

● Structural Stability

Elemental (monolayer) graphene is extremely sensitive to mechanical stress and is prone to damage. Our low-layer graphene, consisting of 3-20 layers of graphene sheets, has much greater mechanical strength and resistance to damage due to interlayer van der Waals interactions. This makes our low-layer graphene more suitable for composite materials and battery materials, where durability and stress resistance are crucial.

● Improved Conductivity in Real-World Environments

Elemental graphene exhibits the highest theoretical conductivity, but in practice, this characteristic deteriorates due to defects and contamination from impurities. Our low-layer graphene maintains high conductivity but is less prone to degradation when in contact with polymers and ionically conductive matrices. Batteries and supercapacitors containing low-layer graphene ensure stable operation under cyclic loading.

● Better Dispersibility in Liquid Media

Elemental graphene tends to aggregate due to its high specific surface area and strong π-π interactions. Our low-layer graphene has an optimal balance between specific surface area and interlayer forces, improving its dispersibility, especially in complex mixtures. This simplifies the process of integrating polymers, cements, and other composite systems.

2. Effect of Dispersion Media Containing Low-Layer Graphene

● Synergistic Effect with the Matrix

Using dispersion media that contain components of the future composite (such as ionic salts for batteries or polymers for fibers) creates direct chemical compatibility. Our low-layer graphene can be "embedded" into the matrix structure at the molecular level without additional processing.

● Reducing the Need for Post-Processing

If low-layer graphene is already in a compatible environment, there is no need to remove solvents and then re-disperse it. Its use saves time, reduces production costs, and minimizes the risk of graphene particle aggregation.

3. Role of Acoustic Resonance Method in Dispersion

● Minimization of Defects

Acoustic resonance (ultrasonic graphene production at resonant frequencies) allows for the gentle separation of graphite into low-layer fragments without damaging the carbon lattice structure. This results in the creation of high-quality graphene with minimal structural defects, which is crucial for ensuring conductivity and mechanical strength.

● High Homogeneity of Layer Distribution

The acoustic resonance method helps achieve a narrow distribution of the number of graphene sheet layers (e.g., 3-10), which is important for controlled material properties. In batteries and composites, this ensures a more uniform distribution of currents and mechanical stress.

● Control Over Graphene Morphology

Our acoustic resonance method for producing graphene can be controlled to achieve different sizes and shapes of graphene sheets. This allows for the optimization of graphene production for specific tasks – whether it is for flexible conductors or solid battery cathodes.