The Graphene-Info newsletter (November 16, 2021)

Supercapacitors are gaining in popularity, as these devices can store and release energy very quickly, and are useful in many applications -including energy generation, grid power support, automotive, consumer devices and more.

Graphene has the potential to increase the performance of supercapacitors, and the material is already used in many commercial products by several companies.

First Graphene has entered into a collaboration agreement with Malaysia-based DSP, a specialist manufacturer of high density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet extrusions.

The collaboration will focus on the development of PureGRAPH-enhanced HDPE sheet and welding wire, providing an increase in durability and abrasion resistance.

U.S-based graphene batteries developer Nanotech Energy is reportedly planning to expand its facilities and develop a 517-acre campus within the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center. The first building is slated to open in Q4 2022.

The high-volume facility will significantly increase Nanotech Energy’s manufacturing capacity to produce and scale its patented, non-flammable Graphene-Organolyte™ batteries and other graphene-powered products, including EMI (electromagnetic interference) shielding, transparent conducting electrodes, conductive inks, conductive adhesives and silver nanowires.

Canada-based NEO Battery Materials, focused on battery metals and materials, recently stated its plan to use graphene in its batteries.

Neo Battery Materials said in a recent announcement that it "intends to implement graphene as a conductive additive when manufacturing the silicon anode materials and as a potential candidate as a nanocoating layer to enhance cycling durability. The conductive additive improves the electrical conductivity of the active material (i.e., silicon and/or graphite) and is an essential component along with the binder and active material to fabricate the end-product anode".

SmartIR, a spin-out of the University of Manchester, is working on a graphene-based smart coating for satellites, to allow them to control thermal radiation on demand, depending on whether a satellite’s surface is Earth’s shadow or on the side closest to the Sun.

This graphene technology is said to be a far more optimal solution as it is lightweight, has a low power consumption, can respond quickly to temperature changes, operates across the infrared spectrum, and involves no moving parts.

In January 2019, Elecjet announced its plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign for its graphene-enhanced USB-C / A fast charging power bank. Now, Elecjet is back with the Elecjet Apollo Ultra - a 37Wh (10,000mAh) power bank that can be charged at 100W, and can output at up to 87W across its two ports.