Author: Energeia Graphenemex

Advancing Asphalt Durability

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

Advancing Asphalt Durability:

Harnessing Graphene’s Potential for Sustainable Roads

Most of the the world’s road infrastructure is composed of pavement made from a complex system of asphalt, aggregates, and binders that interact at an interface to maintain its strength and structural stability. According to the Asphalt Institute, 87 million tons of asphalt are produced worldwide annually, with around 85% used in the paving industry, which, while offering great load capacity and durability, inevitably suffers damage from constant exposure to radiation, temperature, humidity, and traffic.

The deterioration of asphalt not only impacts a basic transportation infrastructure crucial for socio-economic development but also involves environmental impacts in terms of resource depletion and high CO2 emissions caused by roadworks. These factors add to the reasons for the constant search for modification technologies that increase durability and improve mechanical properties of pavements using fibers, rubber; additives such as thermoplastic elastomers, plastic and synthetic resins, iron powder, hydrated lime, or glass waste. However, in some cases, the application of these products can present practical problems such as special preparation conditions, low storage stability, difficulty in mixing during construction, and complexity in compatibilizing these components with the asphalt system.

Fortunately, carbon nanostructures such as graphene and graphene oxide (GO) reappear on the scene as proposed solutions to these issues with interesting contributions to asphalt regarding stiffness, anti-aging, deformation, and penetration resistance; reduction in rutting, improved consistency, heat transfer capacity; skid resistance, and even a reduction in the effort required for compaction during preparation.

Additionally, among the advantages of graphene is its ability to be mixed with other asphalt modifying technologies such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), granulated rubber, blast furnace slag, epoxy resins, and especially with styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), which is one of the most accepted polymers in the asphalt industry, and with which graphene oxide (GO), thanks to its oxygen content, promotes the absorption of aromatics and saturates from SBS with a significant improvement in temperature response, adhesion, and binder stiffness.

Some identified methods that promise to simplify the incorporation of graphene into asphalt mixes are:

  1. Direct addition method: graphene is added to the previously melted asphalt binder.
  2. Indirect addition method: graphene and asphalt binder are simultaneously dissolved in a medium solution to later form a uniform solution.
  3. Auxiliary addition method: graphene is chemically modified with functional groups or added together with other modifying agents to later melt into the asphalt binder.

Although there are few companies that have explored graphene as an asphalt improving additive so far, the extensive research conducted over the past decade is helping to lay the groundwork for understanding and projecting the potential of this technology for the benefit of the paving industry. Even in February 2024, the Infrastructure journal published the results of the ECOPAVE project funded by the European Union, which consisted of a 5-year field test conducted over 1 km of heavy traffic in southern Rome, Italy. For the study, four sections of asphalt pavement with and without additions of graphene-modified polymers were installed. After the 5-year evaluation period, researchers reaffirmed the potential of asphalt modified with graphene polymer as an innovative and feasible technology for high-traffic road paving, as it demonstrated higher stiffness values at different temperatures, better fatigue behavior, and greater deformation resistance, promising an extended lifespan with a significant reduction in maintenance costs.

At Energeia-Graphenemex®, as leaders in graphene application development, we firmly believe that, although there is still work to be done, we are very close to enjoying the economic and environmental benefits that this wonderful technology can bring not only to our streets and roads but also to society.

Draft: EF/DHS

References

  1. Mechanism and Performance of Graphene Modified Asphalt: An Experimental Approach Combined with Molecular Dynamic Simulations. Case Studies in Construction Materials. 2023, 18, e01749;
  2. Properties and Characterization Techniques of Graphene Modified Asphalt Binders. Nanomaterials 2023, 13, 955;
  3. Analysis on the road performance of graphene composite rubber asphalt and its mixture. Case Studies in Construction Materials. 2022, 17, e01664;
  4. A complete study on an asphalt concrete modified with Graphene and recycled hard-plastics: A case study. Case Studies in Construction Materials. 2022, 17, e01437;
  5. Effect of Graphene Oxide on Aging Properties of polyurethane-SBS Modified Asphalt and Asphalt Mixture. Polymers 2022, 14, 3496;
  6. Mechanical Characteristics of Graphene Nanoplatelets-Modified Asphalt Mixes: A Comparison with Polymer- and Not-Modified Asphalt Mixes. Materials 2021, 14, 2434;
  7. Impact of Graphene Oxide on Zero Shear Viscosity, Fatigue Life and Low-Temperature Properties of Asphalt Binder. Materials 2021, 14, 3073;
  8. Experimental Investigation into the Structural and Functional Performance of Graphene Nano-Platelet (GNP)-Doped Asphalt. Appl. Sci. 2019, 9, 686;
  9. Modified Asphalt with Graphene-Enhanced Polymeric Compound: A Case Study. Infrastructures 2024, 9, 39.

Glass and Carbon Fiber Composites Enhancement

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

Glass and Carbon Fiber Composites Enhancement:

Improving Properties with Graphene Nanoparticles

Glass and carbon fibers, thanks to their excellent properties, are widely used in industries such as aerospace, maritime, automotive, sports, construction, and even in the manufacturing of fundamental components for renewable energies such as wind power. However, despite their excellent performance, they often exhibit a phenomenon known as “interlaminar delamination” due to weak fiber/resin interfacial interaction, which can compromise the product’s lifespan and safety due to their significant role in stress transfer between both elements. As this interaction is key to the long-term success of composite structures, various improvement alternatives have been explored, such as Z-pinning, stitching, and braiding; increasing the surface area and reactivity of fibers through surface modifications such as plasma treatment, thermal modification, or chemical functionalization, which are complex, costly processes that are not always efficient and tend to reduce the laminate’s in-plane performance.

“As an additional strategy of relatively recent emergence, the incorporation of nanoparticles into fiber composite materials was proposed to favor interaction with the embedding matrix.”

Graphene, the nanomaterial known as the cornerstone of the carbon family and which since its isolation has been described as “the material of the future” or “the miracle material,” is an attractive candidate as a nanoreinforcement for countless polymeric compounds due to its unique graphitized flat structure, which leads to better mechanical, thermal, and other properties that, unlike other nanoparticles such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), do not significantly increase resin viscosity and therefore allow higher concentrations to be incorporated, favoring the aforementioned fiber/matrix interaction.

Research on the effects of graphene for the design of hybrid materials based on fibers (glass/carbon) embedded in a commonly epoxy-based polymeric matrix has highlighted greater compound stiffness, improvements in fracture resistance, better lubrication, and even improved electrical conductivity. This is because its large surface area allows effective load transmission from the soft polymer matrix to the relatively stiffer graphene sheets, which is an essential requirement for improving mechanical performance, confirmed by increased interlaminar shear strength of the material, greater tensile and impact strength. Additionally, during the manipulation and cutting of hybrid fiber structures, the presence of graphene contributes to generating less heat during milling, leading to lower cutting temperatures and smoother surface roughness; likewise, another benefit is that graphene produces a greater hardening effect and better bending resistance of the material exposed to different temperatures ranging from 40 °C to 200 °C.

At Energeia-Graphenemex, the leading company in Latin America in the production of graphene materials and in the development of applications, we are convinced that graphene’s extraordinary capabilities as a nanoreinforcement for countless three-dimensional matrices will continue to encourage researchers and industrial colleagues to explore its benefits for the manufacture of stronger and lighter structural components for aircraft such as fuselage and wings; automotive parts and aerodynamic bodywork; wind turbines, sports equipment, construction materials, among others.

Draft: EF/DH

References:

  1. Effect of dispersion of alumina nanoparticles and graphene nanoplatelets on microstructural and mechanical characteristics of hybrid carbon/glass fibers reinforced polymer composite. Journal of material research and technology. 2021, 14, 2624;
  2. Experimental investigation on the properties of glass fiber-reinforced polymer composites containing Graphene. AIP Conf. Proc. 2022, 2405, 050009;
  3. Reinforcement effect of graphene oxide in glass fibre/epoxy composites at in-situ elevated temperature environments: An emphasis on graphene oxide content. Composites part A: Applied science and manufacturing. 2017, 95, 40;
  4. Preparation and Mechanical Properties of Graphene/Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Hierarchical Polymer Composites. J. compos sci. 2019, 3, 30;
  5. Improving fiber/matrix interfacial strength through graphene and graphene-oxide nano platelets. IOP Conf. Ser.: Mater. Sci. Eng. 2016, 139, 012004;
  6. Effect of Graphene on Machinability of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP). J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2019, 3, 78;
  7. Size effect of graphene nanoplatelets on the morphology and mechanical behavior of glass fiber/epoxy composites. J Mater Sci. 2016, 51, 3337.

Tapping into Graphene’s Potential:

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

Tapping into Graphene’s Potential:

Enhancing Coatings with Nanotechnology for Weather Resistance

Coatings are designed for decorative purposes and to protect surfaces, especially against corrosion and moisture. In a coating system (multilayer), the top or finishing layer plays a crucial role as it must provide a good appearance and protect the inner layers and the substrate against environmental factors such as sunlight, humidity, corrosion, chemical resistance, soiling, etc., throughout its lifespan.

Today, Polyurethane (PU) is considered one of the coatings with the best physical-chemical characteristics for finishing coating applications and for its weather resistance. However, its weather resistance decreases with exposure to ultraviolet light over long periods.

Sunlight is one of the main causes of damage to coatings. Damage ranges from loss of physical properties, powdering (chalking), cracking, peeling, discoloration, and color change, because of chemical photodegradation, migration, evaporation, and interaction of other components with the coating.

In recent years, various nanostructured materials such as titanium, zinc oxide, cerium, and iron oxide have been implemented to improve the weather resistance of polymeric coatings. The mechanism is based on their projection effect (both absorption and dispersion) of incident rays in the UV region. These materials can stabilize coatings against exterior exposure, possess photocatalytic activity that can destroy the organic binder material present in coatings, leading to modifying the surface of these nanostructured materials to eliminate or inhibit their photocatalytic activity, requiring more processes, time, and money.

Recently, graphene has attracted much attention as a new additive and material for producing coatings to enhance anticorrosive, antimicrobial, and weather-resistant properties, due to its special electronic structure that provides unique electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties. Graphene is a nanomaterial formed by one or more layers of carbon (formed by carbon atoms bonded hexagonally with a thickness of one carbon atom). This structure enables graphene-based materials to absorb photons in the UV region. This UV absorption capacity, as well as the absence of photocatalytic activity of graphene materials, allows introducing these materials as new additives for the photo-stabilization of polymeric coatings, i.e., with greater resistance to UV radiation

Currently, Energeia – Graphenemex®, is in constant development of nanotechnological coatings with better properties. Studies have been conducted on the influence of graphene oxide on the weathering behavior of PU coatings. To evaluate the performance of graphene oxide, a PU coating with graphene oxide (PU/GO) was compared with a PU coating containing a commercial organic UV absorber (PU/control).

Color change in a coating during exposure to weathering (sunlight) is the most important and rapid parameter to visually evaluate coating degradation. To evaluate, color change, samples coated with Polyurethane with and without graphene material were introduced into an accelerated weathering chamber (based on ASTM G154). According to the standard, a QUV weathering chamber model QUV/se was used to accelerate weathering conditions. Coated samples were cyclically exposed to UVA radiation (energy 0.89 W/m2) for 8 hours, followed by moisture condensation for 4 hours at 50 °C. The color of the coatings was evaluated before exposure to compare their initial color, and subsequently evaluated at different exposure times, this evaluation was performed until reaching an exposure time of 1200 hours.

The main component of color typically considered in weathering behavior is the total color change or Delta E (ΔE). Fig. 1 shows the ΔE, as the most comprehensive criterion of color changes, which is the sum of changes in all color components.

As can be seen, most of the color variations throughout the exposure time belong to the PU/control coating. The sample containing graphene oxide (PU/GO) at 251 hours of exposure time shows a lower color change compared to PU/control. With the increase in exposure time in the weathering chamber, color variations can be observed, but the sample with graphene oxide continues to show lower color changes, indicating that the incorporation of GO in Polyurethane provides more resistance and maintains its stability for longer exposure times to weathering.

Fig 1. Total color change (ΔE) versus exposure time for Polyurethane coatings with graphene oxide (PU/GO) and without graphene oxide (PU/control) during accelerated weathering test.

From a physical point of view, graphene oxide (GO) has higher transmittance in the visible region compared to graphene, which is more favorable for its use as a UV protector in finishing coatings. On the other hand, thanks to the high surface area of graphene materials, they can also provide excellent barrier effect properties and thus develop anticorrosive coatings with greater weather resistance.

Energeia – Graphenemex®, through its Graphenergy line, offers a wide range of nanotechnological coatings with graphene. These coatings offer high anticorrosive and antimicrobial protection. In addition to providing high wear resistance, UV resistance, impermeability, and extraordinary adhesion, with the aim of improving the life of any surface or installation and reducing maintenance costs.

References

  1. G. Wang, X. Shen, B. Wang, J. Yao, J. Park, Synthesis and characterisation of hydrophilic and organophilic graphene nanosheets, Carbon N. Y. 47 (no. 5) (2009) 1359–1364.
  2. B. Ramezanzadeh, M. Mohseni, H. Yari, S. Sabbaghian, A study of thermal-mechanical properties of an automotive coating exposed to natural and simulated bird droppings, J. Therm. Anal. Calorim. 102 (no. 1) (2010).
  3. N. Rajagopalan, A.S. Khanna, Effect of Methyltrimethoxy Silane Modification on Yellowing of Epoxy Coating on UV (B) Exposure vol. 2014, (2014).
  4. M. Hasani, M. Mahdavian, H. Yari⁎, B. Ramezanzadeh. Versatile protection of exterior coatings by the aid of graphene oxide nanosheets; comparison with conventional UV absorbers. 2017.
  5. S.M. Mirabedini, M. Sabzi, J. Zohuriaan-Mehr, M. Atai, M. Behzadnasab,
  6. Weathering performance of the polyurethane nanocomposite coatings containing silane treated TiO2 nanoparticles, Appl. Surf. Sci. 257 (no. 9) (2011) 4196–4203.
  7. N.S. Allen, M. Edge, A. Ortega, C.M. Liauw, J. Stratton, R.B. McIntyre, Behaviour of nanoparticle (ultrafine) titanium dioxide pigments and stabilisers on the photooxidative stability of water based acrylic and isocyanate based acrylic coatings, Polym. Degrad. Stab. 78 (no. 3) (2002) 467–478.
  8. Effect of Silane Modified Nano ZnO on UV Degradation of Polyurethane Coatings. vol. 79, (2015), pp. 68–74.
  9. M. Rashvand, Z. Ranjbar, S. Rastegar, Nano zinc oxide as a UV-stabilizer for aromatic polyurethane coatings, Prog. Org. Coatings 71 (4) (Aug. 2011) 362–368.

Graphenemex: Driving Global Innovation in Graphene

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

The invitation to participate in the convention came to Graphenemex thanks to the American University of Sharjah and its commercial partner, World Direct Tech, sponsor of the event. The convention focused on exchanging the latest advances in materials science and engineering, promoting regional and international collaborations between academics, government and industry.

Read full article >

Graphenemex and World Direct Tech shine at materials science conference

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

The alliance between Graphenemex, represented by its CEO Eduardo Priego Mondragón, and World Direct Tech, headed by CEO Paulo Armas, was the center of attention at the International Congress on Frontiers in Materials Science and Engineering (FMSE), organized by the American University of Sharjah (AUS) in the United Arab Emirates on February 14 and 15, 2024. Graphenemex was the only Latin American company invited to this event, being a leader in the field of Nanotechnology.

Read full article >

Atlanta-based WDT hosts Graphenemex at FMSE International Congress in Dubai

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

American University of Sharjah (AUS), United Arab Emirates, is preparing to host the International Frontier Congress in Materials Science and Engineering (FMSE) from February 13 to 15, 2024.

The collaboration between the American University of Sharjah, World Direct Tech and Energeia-Graphenemex aims to show the advances in Latin America in the development of nanotechnological products for the construction industry.

Read full article >

Mexico in Dubai!

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

Graphenemex invited by WDT, a leader in nanotechnology and sponsor of the event, to the FMSE International Congress at the American University of Sharjah.

Dr. Ali Alnaser leads the organizing committee with the goal of facilitating knowledge exchange between government, scientific and industrial leaders from around the world.

Read full article >

Textile Innovations II

Posted on | by Energeia Graphenemex

Textile Innovations:

Exploring Graphene Trends in the Industry

Part II

In the previous article on Textile Innovations, we explored the trends of graphene in the industry, focusing on its practical applications in textiles, leveraging its electrical, thermal, fire resistance, and mechanical properties. In this article, we will delve into the advantages of graphene, considering its multifunctional benefits such as its barrier effect with a focus on waterproofing and antimicrobial properties, as well as its contributions to UV protection and comfort.

Mechanical Resistance

The well-known high mechanical strength of graphene, with a Young’s modulus of ~1100 GPa and a tensile strength of 42 N/m, makes a single layer of graphene 200 times stronger than steel of equal thickness. This strength can be utilized in graphene-modified composites, enabling them to withstand significant forces without deformation, achieving greater strength with a smaller gauge. In wool fabrics, excellent linearity with over 20% elongation, moisture resistance from 30 to 90%, and good electrical and mechanical properties have been observed.

Barrier Properties

The hydrophobic nature of graphene, the size of its nanochannels, and the high electron density on its surface make it highly impermeable to particulate matter, liquids, and gases. Graphene compounds interact with other materials and molecularly organize their three-dimensional structure, creating compounds that are not only impermeable but also mechanically stronger and with significant recovery or deformation resistance.

Un dibujo de una persona Descripción generada automáticamente con confianza baja

Antimicrobial Barrier

Graphene’s antimicrobial capability is advantageous in the textile industry, considering the persistent challenge of microorganism anchoring, proliferation, and spread on garments, especially in the medical sector.

Antimicrobial Barrier Mechanisms

– Size Exclusion: The interatomic distance of carbon atoms in graphene (0.142 nm – 0.9 nm) provides a barrier that microorganisms, with sizes ranging from 10 nm to 3 micrometers, cannot permeate.

– Oxidative Stress: Interactions between the polar ends of phospholipids in cell membranes and graphene generate irreversible oxidative stress and microbial death. Its strong protein anchoring capability can inhibit the enzymatic capacity of some microorganisms.

– Membrane Damage: The sharp edges of graphene layers physically damage the structure of microorganisms, preventing microbial adhesion to surfaces without adverse effects on the skin.

UV Protection

Graphene’s absorption spectrum covers the entire electromagnetic spectrum, with a peak absorption around 281 nm, allowing it to absorb UV radiation with a wavelength between 100 and 281 nm. For wavelengths longer than 281 nm, graphene’s reflective properties play a crucial role in UV radiation resistance and, consequently, in the increased durability of materials exposed to the elements.

Comfort

Traditional textiles like cotton, linen, or silk are highly hydrophilic but have limited water molecule transport capacity. The hydrophobicity of graphene compounds prevents water transport to the inner layer and simultaneously transports water inversely to its outer surface. Its excellent thermal regulation capability prevents the concentration of heat and moisture, creating an environment inhospitable for the proliferation of microorganisms, thus preventing infections, stains, and unpleasant odors.

At Energeia-Graphenemex®, leaders in Latin America in graphene production and development, we are convinced of the tremendous potential of this material to meet the needs of industrial sectors such as the textile industry. We are committed to addressing the scientific, technical, economic, and ethical needs of each project, serving as a strategic ally for companies seeking to innovate and improve their products and processes through the integration of graphene technologies. We look forward to introducing the first graphene textiles in Mexico soon.

Redaction: EF/DH

References:

  1. Graphene Modified Multifunctional Personal Protective Clothing. Adv. Mater. Interfaces 2019, 6, 1900622;
  2. Graphene-based fabrics and their applications: a review. RSC Advances. 2016, 6:68261;
  3. Fabrication of a graphene coated nonwoven textile for industrial applications. Australian Institute for Innovative Materials – Papers. 2016, 2173;
  4. New Perspectives on Graphene/ Polymer Fibers and Fabrics for Smart Textiles: The Relevance of the Polymer/Graphene Interphase. Front. Mater. 2018, 5:18;
  5. Graphene applied textile materials for wearable e-textile. 5 th International Istanbul Textile Congress 2015: Innovative Technologies Inspire to Innovate‖ September 11th -12th 2015 Istanbul, Turkey;
  6. The Effect of Graphene Oxide on Flame Retardancy of Polypropylene and Polystyrene. Materials Performance and Characterization 2020, 9, 1, 284;
  7. Engineering Graphene Flakes for Wearable Textile Sensors via Highly Scalable and Ultrafast Yarn Dyeing Technique. ACS Nano 2019, 13, 4, 3847;
  8. Highly Conductive, Scalable, and Machine Washable Graphene-Based E-Textiles for Multifunctional Wearable Electronic Applications. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2020, 30, 2000293;
  9. Moisture- Resilient graphene – dyed wool fabric for strain sensing. ACS App. Mater. Interfaces. 2020, 12, 11,13265;
  10. Creating Smart and Functional Textile Materials with Graphene. Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Biomedical, Environmental, and Industrial Applications. 2021, Chapter 13.;
  11. Graphene oxide incorporated waste wool/PAN hybrid fibres. Sci Rep 2021, 11, 12068;
  12. Moisture-Resilient Graphene-Dyed Wool Fabric for Strain Sensing. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 2020, 12, 11, 13265;
  13. Thermal Degradation and Flame-Retardant Mechanism of the Rigid Polyurethane Foam Including Functionalized Graphene Oxide. Polymers 2019, 11, 78;
  14. Tuning sound absorbing properties of open cell polyurethane foam by impregnating graphene oxide. App Acoustics. 151, 2019, 10;
  15. Intumescent flame-retardant polyurethane/reduced graphene oxide composites with improved mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties. Journal of Materials Science. 2014, 49, 243;
  16. Production and characterization of Graphene Nanoplatelet-based ink for smart textile strain sensors via screen printing technique. Materials & Design. 198, 15 2021, 109306;
  17. Caracterización de un tejido mezcla poliéster/ algodón aplicando grafeno mediante el proceso de adsorción. Tesis 2020;
  18. Síntesis y formulación de nuevas espumas de poliuretano flexibles con propiedades mejoradas. Tesis 2018.