Is Graphene's Current Capacity Really x1000 Times Higher Than Copper?

In summary, there is a debate surrounding the current carrying capacity of graphene compared to copper. While some articles claim that graphene can carry x1000 more current, research has not yet confirmed this. While graphene does have high carrier mobilities, its low number of carriers means that its specific conductivity is not significantly different from metals like silver or copper. Additionally, the ability of a thin sheet of graphene to carry current is influenced by heat dissipation and cannot be easily quantified.
  • #1
PhiowPhi
203
8
Some articles would state that graphene(1 pure sheet) can carry x1000 the amount of current copper can. When I researched it, there isn't anything indicating so. Are those articles true? Or is it a lie?

I understand how graphene can be slightly better, but that is unrealistic... it is a wondrous material, yet that huge difference in current capacity and it's weight difference, it sounds too good to be true.
 
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  • #2
Carrier mobilities in graphene are exceptionally high, up to 200, 000 cm^2/Vs at room temperature. But the number of carriers is low, so the specific conductivity is not that different from metals like silver or copper.
A thin sheet can carry a lot of current when heat is lead away, there is no simple way of putting a number on that.
 

Related to Is Graphene's Current Capacity Really x1000 Times Higher Than Copper?

What is graphene's current capacity?

Graphene's current capacity is the amount of electricity that can be carried by a sheet of graphene per unit of thickness. It is measured in amperes per square meter (A/m²) and is one of the key properties of graphene that makes it a highly sought-after material in the field of electronics.

How does graphene's current capacity compare to other materials?

Graphene has the highest known current capacity of any material, with a value of approximately 10^8 A/m². This is significantly higher than copper, which has a current capacity of 5.96 x 10^7 A/m², and silver, which has a current capacity of 6.3 x 10^7 A/m². This makes graphene a highly attractive material for use in electronic devices.

What factors affect graphene's current capacity?

The current capacity of graphene is influenced by several factors, including the number of layers, defects and impurities in the material, and the type of substrate it is placed on. Generally, single-layer graphene has a higher current capacity than multi-layer graphene, and a clean and defect-free surface will have a higher current capacity than one with impurities.

How can graphene's current capacity be improved?

One way to improve graphene's current capacity is by using doping techniques, where certain elements are introduced to the graphene lattice to modify its electrical properties. Another approach is to combine graphene with other materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides, to create heterostructures with enhanced current carrying capabilities.

What are the potential applications of graphene's high current capacity?

Graphene's high current capacity has the potential to revolutionize the field of electronics, as it can be used in high-speed transistors, ultra-sensitive sensors, and energy storage devices. It could also have applications in the aerospace and automotive industries, where lightweight and high-strength materials are required.

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