SME KC DCC - Thermally conductive and electrically insulative graphene paint

Purpose and goal

The project is conducted within the frames of the Competence center DCC. The aim is to improve the understanding of how the electrical and thermal conductivity of graphene can be tailored for different applications. The goal is to develop thermally conductive and electrically insulating graphene-based formulations with renewable bio-based binders and rheology modifiers for surface coatings/paints/inks for application on bio-based substrates such as paper and board.

Expected effects and result

Methods for surface modification and macroscopic structuring of graphene will be developed to create an electrically insulating yet thermally conductive ink. This may enable the use of the ink in direct contact with electrically conductive components without interference, which could significantly improve e.g. cooling of flexible and/or printed electronics as well as heat transfer in thermoelectric generators where the most common substrates today (plastic films) have low thermal conductivity.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is divided into 3 work packages, where the first focuses on the selection and evaluation of bio-based surfactants/polymers for the formulation. In the second work package, coated sheets will be produced using different “anti” dispersion techniques to prevent the formation of an electrically conductive network. In the third work package, these knowledge and methods will be applied to graphitized lignin for increased sustainability and circularity.