Plastic originated in 1860 with the development of celluloid, a material designed to replace ivory, marking the starting point for modern plastics. While plastics are indispensable in many industries, their uncontrolled use has caused an environmental crisis, prompting the need for circular economies and recycling. Not all plastics are recyclable, and recycled plastics often lose properties during processing. Nanotechnology, particularly the use of graphene, has enhanced the performance of both virgin and recycled plastics. Even in low concentrations, graphene significantly improves the strength and durability of polymers.

Over the past three decades, the cement industry has reduced CO2 emissions by 40% through clinkerization improvements. In 2021, Mexican cement companies aligned with a roadmap towards a low-carbon economy. Nanotechnologies like graphene oxide (GO) offer significant enhancements, increasing concrete durability, reducing cement use, and improving strength. These innovations benefit both energy efficiency and corrosion control, as well as material workability.

The global water crisis has driven the scientific community and companies to seek solutions. Advances in graphene technology have significantly improved filtration and treatment techniques. This nanomaterial, with its unique properties, is used in filtration membranes and flocculating media, enhancing durability and efficiency.

Non-stick coatings prevent the adhesion of substances to surfaces, based on their low surface energy, which allows them to provide high water repellency (hydrophobic behavior). In the following article you will learn how graphene materials improve non-stick effects, as well as other properties such as resistance to abrasion and UV radiation.