It is a material hailed as a transformative breakthrough in the world of technology – and its potential is practically boundless.
Graphene, just one atom thick yet incredibly strong and conductive, has been earmarked as a game-changer for countless industries, from electronics to energy storage.
Emerging from isolated labs over a decade ago, this supermaterial holds the potential to revolutionise the gadgets in your pocket, bolster renewable energy solutions, and even reshape the healthcare landscape.
So just, what is Graphene?
Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional hexagonal lattice. It stands out for its unique combination of remarkable properties: it’s stronger than steel yet incredibly light and flexible; it’s an excellent conductor of heat and electricity.
However, delving deeper into graphene’s potential, especially in the quantum computing realm, researchers have faced particular challenges. Tomohiro Otsuka, an associate professor at Tohoku University’s Advanced Institute for Materials Research (WPI-AIMR), highlighted one such challenge and its breakthrough: “Through rf reflectometry, we could identify Coulomb diamonds, suggesting the creation of quantum dots in the conduction pathway, instigated by potential variations brought on by bubbles.”
Such nuanced obstacles indicate the complexity of harnessing graphene’s attributes. Measuring quantum bit states accurately, for instance, remains a hurdle. While traditional methods have depended on low-frequency electronics, the evolving demands of quantum computing necessitate more advanced and intricate techniques.
Such has been its prominence and potential for diverse applications so vast its utilisation is quickly being integrated by numerous industries, offering countless opportunities for Graphene investing.
In electronics, companies are exploring Graphene’s ability to craft ultra-thin, flexible screens, potentially revolutionising our smartphones and wearables.
Its prominence isn’t limited to the tech world. Researchers are delving into Graphene-based batteries in the energy sector, promising faster charging times and greater energy densities.
The graphene market, riding on this wave of potential, is booming. A recent report by Grand View Research projected that the global graphene market, valued at USD 175.9 million in 2022, is expected to grow exponentially over the coming years.
However, as with any emerging technology, challenges exist. Scaling production while retaining quality, managing costs, ensuring environmental sustainability, and navigating the intricacies of quantum computing are just a few obstacles graphene must overcome.
Key Players:
PSIQuantum is leveraging bilayer graphene in the burgeoning field of quantum computing. With over USD 680 million in investments, their focus on quantum applications is a testament to graphene’s vast potential.
Another company to watch is Graphene Manufacturing Group. Based in Australia, they harness graphene’s properties to create innovative energy storage solutions, from batteries to strengthening concrete.
Global Graphene Group, headquartered in the US, is an intellectual property powerhouse in the graphene sector, working on various applications from advanced electronics to aerospace.
It’s not just startups and niche players; tech giants like Samsung and IBM have been pouring resources into graphene research, sensing its transformative potential across multiple sectors.
Conclusion
The promise of graphene is vast, and its applications are limitless. For forward-thinking investors, graphene presents an exciting frontier. Yet, as with any emerging technology, the road to widespread adoption and commercialisation is riddled with challenges. From scaling up production to navigating regulatory landscapes to the intricacies of quantum-level applications, the journey of graphene is just beginning. However, the rewards could be monumental for those navigating its complexities. The future of this supermaterial is bright, and its potential impact on industries worldwide is nothing short of revolutionary.
COMPANIES TO WATCH:
PSIQuantum, Regetti, Ionq, Atom Computing, Global Graphene Group, Graphene Manufacturing Group
Author:
Kate Sivess-Symes
Content Producer and Writer
Nano Magazine | The Breakthrough
