Development of conductive rubber compounds based on high quality European rGO
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Graphmatech AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 3 611 250 |
| Project duration | September 2021 - August 2025 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Eurostars |
Important results from the project
The aim of the project was to develop electrically conductive rubber/thermoplastics based on rGO (reduced graphene oxide). An rGO with equivalent conductivity to reference was produced. The production of rGO and AROS graphene (functionalized rGO) was scaled to 1 kg. Polyethylene composites with rGO and carbon-based additives were manufactured and mechanical and electrical properties evaluated. Prototypes were manufactured with good conductivity at test customers and machine manufacturers.
Expected long term effects
The project could eventually lead to new products for injection molding with graphene, which have significantly improved electrical and mechanical properties, which could enable a market share for Graphmatech. Such products could replace less environmentally friendly alternatives such as thermoplastics with metal particles and reduce the amount of material used as a result of the increased strength and conductivity of the plastic.
Approach and implementation
The project´s aim was to develop electrically conductive rubber based on rGO (reduced graphene oxide). This included optimization, characterization and functionalization of rGO and manufacturing of polymer composites. Delayed scale-up of rGO manufacturing delayed the project and as result one partner exited the project. The focus was changed to thermoplastics and scale-up was carried out in 2024. Prototypes with good conductivity were manufactured at test customer and machine manufacturer.