Synthesis of graphene by using coal-tar pitch from the coking plant and its application - a preliminary investigation
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerim AB - Swerim AB, LULEÅ |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 300 000 |
| Project duration | May 2018 - January 2019 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Strategic innovation program SIO Grafen |
Purpose and goal
The overall objective is to preliminarily investigate the possibility of graphene synthesis from the coal tar and tar pitch and to identify its potential application areas. The specific objectives are, - To have a survey on the proper methods of graphene synthesis; - To carry out the laboratory investigation on synthesizing graphene from coal tar and tar pitch; - To identify the possible value chain on fabricating and utilizing synthesized graphene; - To build up knowledge and competences in this area, and create an active and strong collaborative network for the further investigation.
Expected results and effects
The investigation results show that it is possible to produce graphene from coal tar and tar pitch, the by-products generated at the coking plant from SSAB, by the high-temperature treatment. The use of graphene as seeds in the process will increase the production yield. The experimental work indicated that coal tar is better than tar pitch in terms of graphene quality, but tar pitch has higher graphene production yield. The project provided us an opportunity to produce the high value product from by-products, and thus the knowledge, cooperation and competence in this area is building up.
Planned approach and implementation
The project work consists of a literature survey, experimental work, workshops and seminars. Together with SSAB personel, we had regular project meetings once a month. The coal tar and tar pitch samples were prepared and treated in both vacuum resistance furnace and Acheson furnace. The synthesized graphene was characterized by SEM, Raman spectroscopy and XRD. Technical discussions were made with some international experts from Sweden, China and USA. The results were disseminated at the workshop Konsortiekatalys, and it will also be presented at Svenskt Grafenforum in the autumn.