Graphene-enhanced materials offer a unique combination of advanced performance characteristics. These include flame retardancy, reduced water absorption, antibacterial properties, high thermal resistance, UV protection, and the ability to absorb radio waves.
Smart Textiles
Graphene can be integrated into textiles to reduce weight while significantly enhancing functionality. In military and professional applications—such as tents, backpacks, uniforms, and blankets – graphene-enabled fabrics can convert sunlight into electricity without compromising their primary use.
Additionally, fibers can be engineered to replicate sensing capabilities similar to those of a smartwatch, or to detect when a wounded soldier requires treatment, triggering the use of an antimicrobial compression bandage.
Radio Wave Absorption
Scientific studies have shown that stacked graphene layers can increase the absorption of millimeter waves by up to 90% across a wide bandwidth (125–165 GHz), with potential extension into microwave frequencies. This is achieved without blocking visibility, as monolayer graphene remains approximately 98% transparent.
Invisibility Cloaking
The surface impedance of graphene can be adjusted in real time, enabling dynamically tunable and switchable cloaking effects. While stealth aircraft are a well-known conceptual example, more realistic applications include non-invasive sensors and low-scattering electronic components, where minimizing signal interference is critical.
