Graphene is reshaping industries—extending the electric vehicle range, cutting data centre energy costs, and sparking quantum tech innovations. This article is based on EFY’s Ashwini Kumar Sinha and Nidhi Agarwal’s conversation with John Tingay of Paragraf to discuss the science driving this shift.
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Graphene is a material poised to revolutionise the electronics and semiconductor industries. Once a laboratory curiosity, it now faces the critical challenge of scaling production—from high-performance prototypes to millions of reliable devices. This is not just about numbers; maintaining quality on a mass scale is key to graphene’s economic viability.
One early breakthrough in scalable graphene technology is a magnetic sensor designed for cryogenic environments and mainstream applications like electric vehicles (EVs). The same material that could one day enhance your smartphone is already improving EV sensors, offering superior sensitivity, low noise, and a broad dynamic range—perfect for the market’s shift away from internal combustion engines.
But let us not stop there. What about graphene’s potential beyond electronics? The material is also making strides in biosensing and molecular applications, areas rich with academic research now transitioning into practical, scalable platforms. This move could open up new markets and applications that were previously unimaginable. In a conversation with John Tingay, the CTO of Paragraf, we explored the possibilities and envisioned a future where the full potential of graphene is realised.
When discussing graphene production, John says, “We use metal organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) tools to deposit graphene directly onto semiconductor wafers, bypassing the need for pre-made sheets. Metrology techniques like Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM) ensure purity and performance directly on the wafer. The wafers then undergo semiconductor processes like dicing, wire bonding, and packaging, with every graphene-based device tested to meet the demands of applications ranging from vehicle sensors to smartphone chips.”
Role of graphene in battery management systems
Graphene, recognised for its exceptional electrical conductivity and versatility, is poised to advance the electric vehicle (EV) industry significantly, particularly in enhancing battery management systems (BMS). This innovative material is employed in sensors that enable improved current measurement, allowing for a more accurate assessment of the battery’s state of charge. This precision optimises charging while extending the battery’s range and lifespan. “There is ongoing, extensive collaboration between manufacturers and leading automotive suppliers to integrate graphene-based sensors into BMS effectively,” adds John.
Considering the costs, you might wonder if such high-tech solutions are financially feasible. Interestingly, incorporating graphene into BMS is cost-neutral at the system level. The approach here involves replacing expensive shunt resistors with graphene sensors. This swap balances out the financial equation and enhances performance without adding extra costs. System designers are particularly enthusiastic about this update, seeing it as a win-win for enhancing system capabilities without straining budgets.
One transformative aspect of using graphene in BMS is eliminating traditional shunt resistors notorious for generating heat and handling high currents—typically between 600 and 2000 amps. These resistors require very low resistance, which can compromise accuracy at lower currents. Replacing these with graphene-based magnetic sensors reduces heat generation and improves accuracy at those crucial lower currents.
This shift represents a leap to more robust, reliable, and efficient BMS designs. The industry sets new standards by turning to graphene, demonstrating how innovative materials can lead to more sustainable and effective technologies in the automotive sector.
Superior performance in cryogenic conditions |
Graphene excels in cryogenic temperatures where traditional materials like silicon fail: • Robust at ultra-low temperatures. Unlike semiconductors that stop working near absolute zero, graphene remains functional, serving as a Hall effect sensor at low temperatures. • Broad temperature responsiveness. Graphene ensures consistent sensor performance across a wide temperature range, which is ideal for magnetic sensing and other applications. • Simplified temperature calibration. Graphene enables easy and uniform temperature calibration with its atomic structure and lack of a bandgap. • Versatility in sensing applications. Its structure and broad temperature range make graphene suitable for various detection technologies where conventional materials fall short. Graphene’s properties make it a reliable choice for extreme environments and advanced technological applications. |
Is graphene the future of data centres?
In the dynamic world of data centres, the perpetual challenge is to boost computing power while simultaneously cutting energy costs. Graphene and other 2D materials are becoming pivotal, transforming multiple levels of system architecture. At the heart of the hardware, these materials are redefining the efficiency of transistors. Their application in memory systems is particularly promising, especially for AI applications, which are notoriously memory-intensive. The potential for these materials to drastically reduce energy consumption in memory architecture is a thrilling development.
As we scale up from individual components to entire systems, graphene’s impact becomes even more apparent. In communications technology within data centres, graphene can enhance the performance of modulators and receivers. Moreover, it can improve the efficiency of power supplies through the integration of graphene-based sensors. These widespread improvements underscore the extensive potential of graphene in enhancing data centre operations.
The immediate challenge lies in proving that graphene can effectively create higher-performing, energy-efficient transistors and memory systems. The memory sector, in particular, might present a more straightforward avenue for integrating these novel materials compared to the complex task of overhauling existing processing methods. Such integration could mark a significant advancement in evolving data centre technologies.
John says, “Our focus remains on exploiting graphene in applications where it retains its one-atom-thick form. While graphene shows promise in more voluminous three-dimensional structures, such as inks and printable media known for their excellent thermal properties and conductivity, these are not the main focus of our research. Instead, we concentrate on leveraging graphene in semiconductor devices, where its electronic properties can be utilised most effectively on a small scale. Although numerous groups are exploring bulk applications of graphene, our efforts are dedicated to its capabilities in thin, precise configurations, aiming to optimise the heart of data centre technology.”
Graphene meets quantum tech
Welcome to an exciting corner of the material science world, where graphene is not just a standalone superstar—it collaborates with materials like hexagonal boron nitride to form heterostructures with remarkable properties. These structures enable effective transport properties between graphene layers, separated by hexagonal boron nitride, creating fascinating effects that revolutionise quantum research.
The challenge for researchers and tech companies today is scaling up the production of these heterostructures. These are not just any devices but potential game-changers in the quantum technology landscape.
Imagine quantum systems operating within large refrigerators, capable of measuring and diagnosing magnetic fields at temperatures just above absolute zero. Sensors made from these heterostructures could prove indispensable. The heightened sensitivity of these materials is pivotal for enhancing communication technologies—consider modulators and receivers—making the distribution of quantum information across extensive networks more feasible.
But here is the catch: achieving the high-quality graphene needed for these applications is no small feat. For example, the alignment angle between graphene layers needs to be precise, and this precision presents its own set of unique challenges. Aligning these layers in specific orientations remains a task at the forefront of today’s cutting-edge technology.
This journey into the complexities of graphene heterostructures in quantum applications is about exploring new possibilities and setting the stage for breakthroughs that could redefine technological limits.
Graphene integration challenges and progress |
Graphene’s integration into technology faces challenges similar to those in analogue and photonics devices, not silicon-based environments. Key points include: • Limited PDK availability. Creating a process design kit (PDK) for graphene is tough due to the lack of a clear translation from functional requirements to fabrication, as seen with silicon. • Integration tools development. Efforts are underway to develop tools that enable the use of graphene components in various technological environments. • Analogous to analogue and photonics. Graphene’s design tools are more like those used for analogue devices or photonics, addressing specific applications rather than a universal solution. • Historical challenges. While graphene sparked excitement for its properties, scaling production has been slowed by manual processes and difficulties in transferring graphene without damage or contamination. • Innovative manufacturing approaches. Progress in scalable, high-quality manufacturing methods is helping overcome earlier limitations in production. Despite challenges, manufacturing and tool development advances are paving the way for broader graphene integration and applications. |
A key benefit of space applications
The primary advantage of using graphene in space applications lies in its high tolerance to radiation. Substantial evidence suggests that graphene is exceptionally radiation-hard, making it highly suitable for devices that serve as the active component in high-radiation environments.
This characteristic aligns with the rigorous demands of space technology, where durability and reliability are paramount. While integrating graphene into existing systems does not pose unique challenges compared to other materials, its selection is primarily based on its proven radiation hardness.
The integration process involves demonstrating graphene’s ability to replace other materials effectively in critical applications where reliability and ruggedness are key. This aspect is particularly crucial for space and deep space missions, where the ability to withstand extreme conditions can determine mission success. Graphene’s robustness in such settings makes it a prime candidate for these high-stakes applications.
And it is not just theory. Graphene is already delivering real-world benefits in aerospace. Its unmatched strength, flexibility, superior thermal and electrical conductivity, and transparency surpass many other materials. The result? Lighter, stronger, and more efficient components redefine what is possible in aircraft and space technology.
As aerospace engineers continue to push the limits of graphene’s potential, the material will be a cornerstone of future innovation.
While challenges remain in scaling production and ensuring precision, the real-world applications of graphene are already shaping the future of technology. As research and development progress, graphene stands as a cornerstone for the next generation of high-performance, efficient, and sustainable devices, paving the way for breakthroughs in everyday technology and complex scientific endeavours.
John Tingay, Paragraf’s CTO, leads research and development with expertise in open innovation management, the transfer and setup of SMEs, and technical leadership in defining complex system architectures.
Co-authors Ashwini Kumar Sinha and Nidhi Agarwal are Senior Technology Journalists at EFY.