Sweden invests heavily in graphene research

The funding will be spent on producing graphene, developing products and research into experimental and theoretical physics. The Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, will receive the majority of the grant which will be spent on improving the production process and developing reliable synthesis methods to produce high quality graphene surfaces. The graphene will then be investigated and processed at the nano level. Researchers at the university have already achieved several breakthroughs with graphene, such as a new standard for the quantum of resistance – a 'tuning fork' for calibrating the correct resistance in electrical instruments and devices. Resistance standards are based on silicon or gallium arsenide, both of which are difficult to manufacture, the new standards based on graphene are said to be equally as accurate, while being easier to produce and use. Project coordinator, Mikael Fogelström, pictured, said: "Graphene has enormous potential in high frequency electronics, and Chalmers is at the forefront of this research. This material can open up a whole world of new possibilities. One example is 'see through cameras' that can see through clothes at security checkpoints. We are also hoping to find new applications unique to graphene in areas other than high frequency electronics." Researchers at Chalmers now plan to set up a centre for graphene. "It would be a good idea to get together with more graphene research groups, and perhaps form a national research centre", Mikael Fogelström added. "That would be a good step to take for pursuing EU flagship funds."