Principal investigator: Vander Wal, Randy, Sarma Pisupati
University: Pennsylvania State University
Industry partners: Laurel Materials, LLC
High-quality graphene is sought for applications spanning coatings, composites, and conductive media; Laurel Materials has developed a process to create hemp-derived graphene (CleanGraphene), a bio-renewable material offering a sustainable process for a high-value carbon nanomaterial. Laurel Materials manufactures CleanGraphene with a process which bypasses barriers associated with present production processes and begins with a plant-based material, unlike present graphene materials derived from petroleum or coal. To assess graphene quality, Laurel Laterials characterizes CleanGraphene by advanced instrumental analyses, including SEM, TEM, TGA, XRD, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy, which provide feedback to develop and optimize the process. CleanGraphene will be evaluated for performance as a polymer additive for conductive (electrical and thermal) applications in addition to strengthening. We describe baseline tests, reference materials, and future options. This comprehensive 2-part work plan provides baseline data by which to gauge the CleanGraphene quality with production feedback and performance data to identify target markets and manufacturers.