Nanoworld: Small Science, Big Possibilities

Graphene, the world’s first 2D material, was discovered in 2004 at the University of Manchester. Since then, graphene’s unique properties have been revealed, along with the existence of many other 2D materials. Listen to scientists explore the nanoworld, discussing the applications of graphene and other 2D materials. The tiniest wonders await you at the nanoscale!

Applications of Graphene and Other 2D Materials
Dr. Mark Bissett (Reader in Nanomaterials)
Since its isolation graphene, the first 2D material, has attracted enormous amounts of attention from the scientific community, industry, and also the general public and has found its way into many commercially available products. However, graphene is but one of many hundreds of 2D materials that exist and each have their own unique properties. In this talk, I will discuss some of the varied application of these 2D materials ranging from polymer nanocomposites to electrochemical energy storage.
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How to get tough with 2D
Dr. Darren Hodgeman (Senior Materials Scientist at Morgan Advanced Materials)
Graphene is incredibly strong, thin and lightweight, though the production of high quality graphene is still difficult on the large scales required for commercial applications. The incorporation of graphene into composites is one route to make use of its amazing properties, without necessarily needing very large quantities. Here, we will look at how graphene can make tougher composites that are less liable to crack and why this is important to many applications.

Building Graphene City from the Atom Up
Vicente Orts Mercadillo (Senior Scientist, Vector Homes)
Nearly two decades since it was first isolated graphene is still captivating the imagination of researchers, industry, and entrepreneurs alike. In this talk we’ll look back at graphene’s humble beginnings on the back of a side of cello-tape, and catch up on the progress this Nobel prize winning material has made since. I’ll take a particular focus on the role that Manchester has played, and the importance that government policy, devolution, and public engagement will have in shaping its future.