Pioneering production of Graphene

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project was to provide a basis for future production of a graphene composite made from biomass. We wanted to explore the possibility of scaling up to a process-based pilot production in a new facility. We also wanted to look at the possibility of developing the material to pure graphene, as well as to analyse the market for the material. Altogether, this would result in a recommendation regarding the future of the project. All activities have been successfully completed and the recommendation is to proceed with the project. A plan for how to do this has been formulated.

Expected results and effects

Our analyses indicate that the material can be produced in large quantities at a reasonable price. However, more work is required to estimate a more accurate production price. The potential market is very large and the market price today is high. The recommendation is to proceed with a pilot production of the material. This should, however, be done in two stages, where the first stage is a smaller scale, lab pilot and the second stage a larger pilot. Both steps are expected to generate material in quantities that will allow us to start selling samples to R&D departments of potential customers.

Planned approach and implementation

All tests have been performed at the KTH Electrum lab in Kista. Two separation processes have been tested and evaluated. An electro-chemical process was chosen. The properties of the material have been measured and analysed. We have mapped and evaluated the market and found our segment of this market. We have also found a partner who has valuable experience of taking a similar material from lab scale to industrial scale production. A decision basis for the future of the project has been prepared. Overall, the activities have been executed according to plan, with a small time offset.