Jul 27 2016
Thomas Swan & Co. Ltd. and the National Graphene Institute (NGI) have announced a unique collaboration at the EuroScience Open Forum in Manchester to produce new commercial options for graphene and a completely new range of 2D materials.
Thermal image of resistors – (left) without and (right) with 2D boron nitride thermal paste (Credit: The University of Manchester)
As part of their agreement, Thomas Swan, an independent materials manufacturer in the UK, and the NGI at The University of Manchester will not only aim to speed up the commercialization of graphene, but also increase early-stage research on various other 2D materials.
Graphene was first isolated in 2004 and since then, researchers have identified a whole new class of atomically thin materials, including boron nitride, also called ‘white graphene’. All of these materials could potentially have superlative properties, making them incredibly effective in thermal insulation.
Now, the NGI scientists working with materials offered by Thomas Swan, have produced a thermal paste using white graphene to help electronics function at much lower temperatures compared to current technology. This could open new possibilities for high-performance electronics with longevity.
Through the partnership, Thomas Swan will provide 2D products in order to support early-stage research projects inside the NGI, as well as improve prototyping of innovative technologies. In the meantime, the NGI will give feedback on the performance of 2D products supplied by Thomas Swan and discover new opportunities for future development.
Graphene research has moved on significantly from fundamental characterization to early commercialization. Forming valuable partnerships with unique companies like Thomas Swan means that 2D materials now offer both academics and industry new avenues for exploitation. With graphene we can now start to leverage the existing material supply chain and focus on developing applications. Now it’s important to ensure our understanding of other 2D materials is sound and look to scale up and develop these amazing new materials which could have untold impact on industry in conjunction with graphene.
James Baker, Graphene Business Director of the NGI
Andy Goodwin, Commercial Director-Advanced Materials Division at Thomas Swan said: “This is a great opportunity to work with world class scientists to increase our understanding of 2D material technologies and then work together to accelerate their adoption into real world applications.
“Thomas Swan are uniquely positioned to supply a range of 2D materials in addition to graphene and we are delighted to be partnered with the NGI.”