Launching Graphene to the Stratosphere

August 17, 2018

A single layer of graphene was coated on a substrate, and the experiment was placed in the payload enclosure of a CubeSat. (Photo: Boreal Space)

Researchers are testing the properties of graphene after it has been launched into the stratosphere. Two-dimensional graphene has a unique combination of being extremely flexible, harder than diamond, and stronger than steel.

To put graphene’s versatility to the test, a substrate was coated with a single layer of graphene and the sample was launched within a CubeSat. It was subjected to harsh conditions like rapid acceleration, vibration, acoustic shock, strong pressure, and a wide range in temperature fluctuations.

The test results could open up new opportunities for graphene to be incorporated into technologies suitable for outer space and aerospace missions.

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