Water-based graph ink for 3D printing
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Water-based graph ink for 3D printing– Researchers at the University of Waterloo (Canada) have developed an additive-free, water-based graph ink that offers new possibilities for applications in electronics, the automotive industry and environmental technology. The ink can be processed with 3D printers and offers sustainable solutions for countless technical challenges.
Graphene is considered a promising material due to its unique electrical and thermal properties. However, its industrial application is limited by the difficulty of handling its powdery structure. Researchers at the University of Waterloo have solved this problem by developing a water-based, additive-free graphene ink. This new formulation allows graphene to be molded into complex geometries using 3D printing without the need for chemical solvents. This makes production more environmentally friendly and versatile.
Various applications of graph ink
The high conductivity and malleability of graph ink make it suitable for a range of applications. It can be used in wearable sensors for smartwatches or blood glucose meters for diabetics. In the automotive industry, it can be used to produce lighter vehicle parts, which reduces fuel consumption and increases durability. The ink can also be used in environmental technologies, for example to filter and desalinate water or to clean oil spills with superabsorbent structures. Another promising approach is the capture of carbon dioxide to actively combat climate change.
Options for organic coatings
Water-based graphene ink also opens up new possibilities for organic coatings. It can be used as a conductive layer in functional coatings that are used in flexible electronics or smart surfaces, for example. In addition, the ink enables the development of durable, solvent-free protective coatings for metals and plastics, allowing more environmentally friendly coating processes to be achieved.
Efficient mass production thanks to new process.
Special process
An important aspect of this innovation is the newly developed two-stage electrochemical process that enables the production of graphene nanosheets in water. A special intercalation process, in which molecules are introduced into layered graphite, enables the continuous production of nanoscale graphene particles.
Possible breakthrough in sustainable material development
According to the director of the Multiscale Materials Design Lab at the University of Waterloo, Prof. Milad Kamkar, this technology could be a breakthrough in the development of sustainable materials. The new ink combines environmental friendliness with high performance and paves the way for innovative applications in a wide range of industries.
Reading tip: Silicon and nanotechnology for coatings
Dive into the world of advanced coatings with “Silicon and Nanotechnology for Coatings”. This comprehensive guide explores the interface between nanotechnology and silicone chemistry and offers insights into improving coating performance through innovative materials. Learn more about cutting-edge applications and future trends shaping the coatings industry.
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Source: European Coatings
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