3D GRAPHENE MUSCLE: 10 TIMES STRONGER A team at MIT has given graphene a new look, 3D style, through the development of a sponge-like version that has only 5% of the density of steel, yet is 10 times as strong. In its two-dimensional flat sheet form graphene has long intrigued material scientists, but to convert it into a practical engineering material MIT scientists found it needed a much stronger three dimensional form. The team compressed small flakes of graphene under heat and pressure and created strong, stable porous structures that were similar to coral and had an enormous surface area to volume ratio. Due to shape complexities, the only way to produce these were via high resolution 3D-printed models. The technology could be applied to other materials ranging from polymers to structural concrete and would not only produce structures that are stronger and lighter, but have better insulating properties. In addition, the porous structures could be used in filtration systems for water or chemical plants. Simulation results of tensile and compression tests on 3D graphene Photocredit: MIT THAN STEEL
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