Study reveals potential of flash graphene in reducing environmental impact

A recent study underscores the potential of converting carbon dioxide and waste plastic into flash graphene (FG), a process that could yield significant environmental benefits in composite applications. The research, conducted by Dr. Paul Advincula, Dr. Wei Meng, among others, was published by Wiley.

Mounting concern over CO2 emissions, largely fueled by fossil fuel combustion and waste plastic disposal, has prompted researchers to devise new carbon capture and sequestration technologies. A method delineated in a recent study involves the transformation of gaseous CO2 into solid carbon feedstocks via molten carbonate electrolysis. According to the study published by Wiley on Oct. 20, 2023, flash Joule heating is recognized as a swift and cost-effective technique to convert carbon-rich feedstocks into FG. The research primarily focuses on the conversion of amorphous carbon derived from CO2 into FG which is then amalgamated with plastic for use as a reinforcing additive in various composite materials.

The research discloses that incorporating FG into epoxy and vinyl ester resins considerably improves their mechanical properties. Specifically, the study indicates that the inclusion of FG leads to up to 73% increases in both Young's modulus and hardness. The life cycle assessment of this process suggests notable environmental benefits such as reductions in CO2 emissions (7.7%), water consumption (5%), and energy consumption (2.7%) when 5 wt% of amorphous carbon-derived FG is added to epoxy. These findings are validated through various analytical techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman spectroscopy, affirming the successful conversion of feedstocks into FG.

Despite these promising results, the study also recognizes limitations in the interaction between FG and certain matrices like vinyl ester (VE). While FG enhances mechanical properties at lower strains, neat VE exhibits superior yield strength and strain at higher strains. This implies that while the creation and application of a CO2-negative reinforcing additive derived from CO2 and waste plastic is achievable, further refinement in the filler/matrix compatibility is crucial for optimizing performance.

Wiley: Paul Advincula, et al., Macromolecular Materials and Engineering, (2023). https://doi.org/10.1002/mame.202300266