SME KC DCC - Thermally conductive and electrically insulative graphene paint

Important results from the project

The project was conducted as SME-project within the Competence center Digital Cellulose Center (DCC). We identified a class of bio-based substances that at low dosages significantly limit the electrical conductivity of the material. With these substances, bio-based binders and thickeners, a circular paint with low electrical conductivity could be formulated. Coatings with high graphene content but low electrical conductivity could be manufactured. The thermal conductivity could not be measured quantitatively, but the coatings could be used to generate heat in the material.

Expected long term effects

The project will lead to strengthened R&D capabilities through new knowledge and methodology. We expect to be able to replace certain synthetic additives with bio-based alternatives, improving both sustainability and competitiveness. Some results are transferable to other projects, and have already led to a new collaboration in selective heating. The results have been forwarded to DCC, within which new project ideas have been proposed and further collaboration opportunities have been identified.

Approach and implementation

The project was carried out by one party as part of the regular R&D activities, in parallel with other DCC-related activities. Slightly more time than planned was spent on optimizing the methodology to create good quality coatings/films. This was important in order to be able to compare the measurement results and thereby the effect of the different additives. The most significant deviation from the plan was that we were unable to measure the thermal conductivity as intended.