Discovery Graphene
Sep 15, 2010
Andre Geim, a Nobel laureate and Professor at Manchester University, shares his groundbreaking journey in isolating graphene using just sticky tape. He discusses graphene's incredible versatility and its potential to revolutionize industries, from technology to transportation. The conversation dives into innovative applications like rapid DNA sequencing and hydrogen storage, along with the challenges of commercialization. Geim also highlights advancements in graphene production that could pave the way for its use in everyday consumer electronics, like touchscreens.
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Scotch Tape Method Discovery
- Andre Geim and his team isolated graphene using the simple 'scotch tape technique' peeling layers from graphite repeatedly.
- Initially, they identified flakes one atom thick by their faint color and almost invisible contrast under a microscope.
Graphene's Unique Properties
- Graphene is the thinnest possible material, just one atom thick, yet the strongest and most elastic material discovered.
- It conducts electricity far better than copper and is impermeable to gases, defying theoretical expectations.
Graphene's Mechanical Strength
- A graphene sheet can hold atmospheric pressure, demonstrating its extraordinary mechanical strength despite being atomically thin.
- This strength enables uses like sensing pressure changes based on vibrations, akin to tuning a drum's pitch.