When we think of graphene, we tend to think of its use in high-profile applications such as electronics, medical devices, and building materials. However, it is now being incorporated into additives and reported to improve the performance of modest plastic films.
Widely hailed as a “wonder material,” graphene takes the form of one-atom-thick sheets of carbon atoms bonded together in a honeycomb pattern. Not only is it the strongest man-made material in the world, it is also extremely flexible, stretchy, chemically stable, and exhibits high electrical and thermal conductivity.
With these qualities in mind, Brazilian company Gerdau Graphene incorporated small flakes of the material into an additive known as Poly-G PE-07GM.
When Poly-G pellets are added to resins used to make polyethylene films, the finished product is reported to be much stronger, more thermally stable, UV resistant, and more conductive than otherwise.
Additionally, Poly-G reinforced films are stronger than traditional pure polyethylene films and can be made thinner. As a result, less polyethylene resin is required for manufacturing, and it is even lighter. According to the company, these factors have led to lower manufacturing and transportation costs.
In a series of industrial trials, Poly-G film was used to package construction nails. Although the film is 25% thinner than traditional polyethylene packaging films, it has “far fewer” nail perforations, resulting in 39% less nail waste due to breakage.
Yes, the reinforced film is claimed to be 100% recyclable. It is also said that various grades of additives can be used in the production of solid three-dimensional polyethylene products.
The company has just announced the first commercial sale of Poly-G PE-07GM to an undisclosed industrial client. We also have a partnership with Sumitomo Corporation for sales in Japan.
Source: Gerdau Graphene
