Graphene: The more you bend it, the softer it gets

New research by engineers at the University of Illinois combines atomic-scale experiments with computer modeling to determine how much energy it takes to bend multilayer graphene -- a question that has eluded scientists since graphene was first isolated.

Researchers have determined how much energy it takes to bend multilayer graphene. Photo: Stephanie Adams

Graphene -- a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a lattice -- is the strongest material in the world and so thin that it is flexible, the researchers said. It is considered one of the key ingredients of future technologies.

Most of the current research on graphene targets the development of nanoscale electronic devices.

Yet, researchers say that many technologies -- from stretchable electronics to tiny robots so small they cannot be seen with the naked eye -- require an understanding of the mechanics of graphene, particularly how it flexes and bends, to unlock their potential.

By draping multiple layers of graphene over a step just one to five atoms high, the researchers created a controlled and precise way of measuring how the material would bend in different configurations.

"These results not only resolve a decade-long question in our understanding of graphene, they have implications for the creation of machines that are small and flexible enough to interact, for example, with cells or other biological materials," says Dan Finotello, a program director in NSF's Division of Materials Research.

"There are significant implications for the mechanical properties of two-dimensional materials and devices." (National Science Foundation)

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Fresh red blood cell transfusions do not help critically ill children more than older cells

Researchers have found that transfusions using fresh red blood cells—cells that have spent seven days or less in storage—are no more beneficial than older red blood cells in reducing the risk of organ failure or death in critically ill children.

Whales may owe their efficient digestion to millions of tiny microbes

Bowhead whales' gut microbes play important roles in the whales' health.

Justinianic plague not a landmark pandemic?

Thanks to results of a recent study, researchers now have a clearer picture of the impact of the Justinianic Plague, which lasted from about 541-750 CE.

Nearly 40% of plant species are very rare, and vulnerable to climate change

Almost 40% of global land plant species are categorized as very rare, and these species are most at risk for extinction as climate continues to change.

Oceans running out of oxygen at unprecedented rate

Oxygen in the oceans is being lost at an unprecedented rate, with “dead zones” proliferating and hundreds more areas showing oxygen dangerously depleted, as a result of the climate emergency and intensive farming, experts have warned.

Mobile phone could cause physical pain

A new study suggests that cell phone could be the cause of neck or head pain in people.