Top tips for physics outreach from a prize winner, making graphene more sustainable
Nov 21, 2024
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Joanne O’Meara, a medical physicist at the University of Guelph and a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal for science outreach, shares her passion for science communication and plans to open a new science center. Burcu Saner Okan, principal investigator at Sabanci University’s Sustainable Advanced Materials Research Group, discusses sustainable graphene production techniques, highlighting the use of recycled materials and the importance of a circular economy. Together, they reveal the beauty of physics in everyday life and innovative outreach strategies.
Engaging in physics outreach is vital for demystifying the field and fostering public interest through relatable presentations and demonstrations.
Innovative methods for sustainable graphene production using waste materials not only address environmental concerns but also enhance commercial viability and scalability.
Deep dives
The Importance of Physics Outreach
Academic physicists are encouraged to engage in outreach efforts to address the common perception that physics is an esoteric and theoretical field. This outreach helps to demonstrate how physics is involved in everyday experiences, making the subject more relatable to the general public. For instance, a physicist actively participated in local elementary school demonstrations and guided tours of a university reactor, providing tailored presentations to diverse audiences. Such initiatives not only foster interest in physics but also help to break down barriers between academic institutions and the broader community.
Innovations in Sustainable Graphene Production
Graphene production currently faces sustainability challenges due to environmentally harmful methods, including the use of acidic solutions and high energy consumption. Researchers are exploring alternative approaches that utilize waste materials, such as plastics and biomass, to create graphene while promoting a circular economy. By transforming waste into high-value materials, these methods not only reduce environmental impacts but also make the production process more scalable. This shift towards sustainability in graphene production could significantly enhance its commercial viability and promote more responsible resource use.
Commercializing Sustainable Graphene Solutions
The establishment of companies focused on producing graphene from waste materials signifies a growing trend toward sustainable manufacturing practices. One such company, Euronova, integrates waste additives into thermoplastic products, addressing environmental concerns in the plastic industry. By optimizing production methods to be cost-effective, Euronova enables manufacturers to utilize sustainable graphene without incurring additional expenses. This approach not only meets the increasing demand for sustainable products but also aligns with regulatory pressures related to carbon taxes in various industries.
In this episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast I am in conversation with Joanne O’Meara, who has bagged a King Charles III Coronation Medal for her outstanding achievements in science education and outreach. Based at Canada’s University of Guelph, the medical physicist talks about her passion for science communication and her plans for a new science centre.
This episode also features a wide-ranging interview with Burcu Saner Okan, who is principal investigator at Sabanci University’s Sustainable Advanced Materials Research Group in Istanbul, Turkey. She explains how graphene is manufactured today and how the process can be made more sustainable – by using recycled materials as feedstocks, for example. Saner Okan also talks about her commercial endeavours including Euronova.
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