nir-vana innovation network

This Italian company is able to produce graphene with an innovative method of graphite exfoliation where ultrasonic and electrochemical technology and chemical oxidation are combined. This method permits to dose the defective of material in optimum way for they different applications.
Graphene is a new material made of a simple mono-atomic layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal geometry, the thinnest in nature; it has properties of high mechanical strength, 100 times more than steel because the atoms are linked together by very strong chemical bonds; it has electro-conductive and thermo-conductive properties superior to those of copper. It has a very high ratio between surface and weight; it is totally waterproof, flexible and can be made optically transparent and is biodegradable. In short, graphene brings together properties that are found only in different materials. New super-resistant, light and flexible composites can be made, which are also fireproof, can be used for thermal insulation, for surfaces with high conductive capacity such as for example for photovoltaics, to make more effective and powerful batteries, paints, optical modulators for data communication, display.

The company intends to develop application solutions following specific requests, not only to sell graphene but products that integrate graphene for those who request them, on demand and choosing the most promising trends.

Graphene produced meets applications in the entire fields where it’s essential to catch on the surface of the materials one or more molecules able to help the dispersion in the matrix or to involve the same graphene in the reaction. This method to produce graphene, allows itself to be used in different and several applications, such us to be smeared on the surface of different materials like electrodes used in electrochemical applications, extended their life.
Some of the greatest opportunity offered by graphene:
Open cell spongy polymeric materials:
1) Direct combustion protection. Padding of armchairs, mattresses etc.
2) Bacteriostatic and anti-mold properties.
3) Absorption of oils and fats. Hood filters, sponges for recovering organic pollutants and oils from water.
4) Electrodes for capacitors for energy storage
Natural and polymeric fabrics:
1) Bacteriostatic and anti-mold action on natural fabrics for underwear and sportswear.
2) Anti-electrostatic action for work clothing.
3) Hydrophobic action for clothing
Membranes and filters:
1) Gas separation.
2) Water purification.
3) Extraction of organic molecules from vegetables (e.g. anthocyanins from blueberry juice).
The company is looking for commercial agreement with technical assistance: companies interested in this technology, able to promote it. Potential partners may come from all branches of industry.
One of the field of application for this technology, where the company is very active, is the building sector, so companies operqating in this sector would be suitable partners. However this technology allows it to be applied in various fields, so all companies interested in graphene would be potential partners. The company will provide all technological, technical information, and will assist the partner.

The company considers also the license agreement: companies who want to exploit the technology under license agreement.

Advantages & innovations

It is considered a super material and a reference point for the technologies of the future, thanks to its incredible features. In relation to its thickness, it appears to have a mechanical resistance a hundred times higher than that of steel; it is the best thermal conductor known to scientists; it is an excellent electrical conductor, more than copper; it is very light, very thin and super flexible; it is completely waterproof and biodegradable; it is almost transparent and can be made optically; it has remarkable ability to absorb light and much more. It is no coincidence that the "material of wonders" has been nicknamed and that its discoverers have earned the achievement of the most prestigious of scientific awards.

Stage of development

Available for demonstration

Partner sought

The company is looking for commercial agreement with technical assistance: companies interested in this technology, able to promote it. Potential partners may come from all branches of industry. One of the field of application for this technology, where the company is very active, is the building sector, so companies operqating in this sector would be suitable partners. However this technology allows it to be applied in various fields, so all companies interested in graphene would be potential partners. The company will provide all technological, technical information, and will assist the partner. The company considers also the license agreement: companies who want to exploit the technology under license agreement.