Graphene the future silicon

Yet again pointing out the high degree of importance of basic research to applied science.

"...before our latest work we did not know, nor expected..."

How many unpredicted effects are there awaiting discovery? An unknown, and likely unknowable, number. But we can't even GUESS if we don't fund and conduct the research. Which is why political allocation of resources is a wrong-minded approach. Look at the thread about the "artificial fly" - DARPA funded it, but only after much basic science had shown the possibility of something useful being "in there". This is wonderful stuff, folks, I recommend EVERYONE who has a curiosity bump read this article. We may be using/wearing this stuff in our lifetimes... And even if not, it's still good basic research. LOVE it!

Graphene the future silicon "like the substitution of silicon as a basic material for electronics it is not feasible for the next twenty years"

"but for applications like coating for solar cells or for liquid crystals, it would be feasible in the next three to five years"

OK so it is a FUTURE substitute or replacement for silicon. Maybe.

It has a name but no details as to exactly what it is or consists of. Say what?

Hello Stirling Stan

Graphene appears to be a generic name applied to ring-shaped carbon molecules, some including other elements.

Google Results 1 - 10 of about 59,100 for graphene molecule.

Also: http://onnes.ph.man.ac.uk/nano/News/PhysicsWorld_2006.pdf

Which sheds some light on the subject.

Graphenes of various flavours have been around for a while, and now more complex graphenes are being made in research labs, some good results may arrive.

Who knows, make an air-powered car out of graphenes, and not only will the happy owner need no fuel, his petrol tank will fill up as he drives, so it can be pumped out at regular intervals, and sold at an amazing profit.

Kind Regards....