Nov 14 2010
Graphene Thermoplastics for Mass-Produced Electronics, Packaging and Structural Parts New research will demonstrate the significant improvements in mechanical, electrical, thermal and barrier properties of thermoplastics that can be achieved by introducing graphene to the polymer.
Reinforcing polymers with graphene nano platelets can give exceptionally high property increases. NetComposites is currently bringing together a European partnership of companies to develop this technology for a range of application areas, including electronics, lighting, packaging and structural components. The project will concentrate on thermoplastic masterbatches and compounds that can be used in a range of moulding processes and additive manufacturing methods (SLS, FDM).
The project will be led by a group of companies that want to explore the potential of graphene thermoplastics in high-volume products, and NetComposites is looking for additional companies to join this end-user group to steer the project. Companies would have input into the specification of properties, applications and markets.
It is anticipated that funding for the project will be through the European Commission's Framework 7 funding programme.