We're talking about graphene today. The simplest way to describe graphene is that it is a single, thin layer of graphite—the soft, flaky material used in pencil lead.
Graphene used to cost $200,000 per ton.
However, over the past 10 years, the price of graphene has steadily fallen.
Now, scientists believe they can make it from trash.
What’s so special about graphene?
Graphene provides a plethora of use cases as it can be applied to a dynamic range of material to lend it strength, make it more lightweight, or add conductivity.
This means it can be used in construction to enhance concrete, or applied to heat-sensitive products like smartphones, LEDs, and batteries.
At a mere one atom thick, it’s ideal for reducing space and weight.
The only problem before was its cost.
What makes this generation defining?
Many of the products and materials we use today could benefit from graphene.
Since the 2010 Nobel Prize in Physics confirmed its robust potential, experts agree about its versatility and efficiency.
For one thing, it’s highly flexible, has better electron mobility than any metal, and is incredibly thin at just a layer of atoms.
On top of that, it’s even stronger than steel.
Because of its nature, thousands of patents are filed every year for its usage on contemporary products ranging from solar cells, electronic transistors, flexible displays, and sensors.