First Graphene Ltd, a leading graphene producer, faced a measurement challenge in determining the nanoscale conductivity of their platelets. This is crucial for using our materials in a range of applications, including energy storage and conductive inks. They wanted to understand the level of conductivity of individual platelets, which would then help to understand the maximum achievable conductivity they could obtain from the material. This information was vital for defining the market boundaries and ensuring efficient allocation of limited resources, by ensuring First Graphene could focus on sectors and applications that were suited to their materials.
Without the in-house resources and knowledge to tackle this challenge from first principles, First Graphene Ltd engaged with NPL to leverage our expertise, engaging in the M4Q scheme. They engaged in a project that involved the comprehensive measurement and characterisation of a range of materials, largely based on their commercially available PureGRAPH® graphene nanoplatelets, along with novel transition metal-doped products.
Multiple samples were created from each material to capture any spatial variation in the films/foils. Electrical transport measurements in a range of environments were then obtained. The results provided in-depth insights into the electrical properties of the material by revealing the transport properties, including electrical resistivity, doping type, carrier density and mobility.
NPL's M4Q project was highly valuable for First Graphene Ltd, providing precise electrical property characterisation and helpingto build out their in-house knowledge. The project improved their understanding of electrical transport properties, which gave them a strong position when engaging with downstream customers. The availability of robust measurement data meant that First Graphene Ltd could efficiently identify new product application opportunities, optimise product development, and make informed commercialisation decisions.
NPL's precision measurements underscored the success of the M4Q scheme, emphasising its pivotal role in advancing graphene technology for industry partners.
Our work with the NPL Measurement for Quantum (M4Q) Scheme has been invaluable in helping us to understand relevant commercial projects and opportunities. Graphene is a versatile material with widespread applications and potential, but having limited resources, we obviously need to prioritise projects with the greatest chance of success. The robust measurements provided by NPL have increased our level of understanding. Engaging with NPL through the M4Q scheme was a positive experience for us; we are looking forward to putting the results into action in our business plans.
Dr Ian Martin, Research and Development Manager at First Graphene Ltd
