Not All “Graphene” Is Graphene: Educating Tech Transfer for Manufacturing

Graphene, a carbon nanomaterial first isolated in 2004, is known for its extraordinary mechanical strength, electrical and thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance. Despite extensive research, patents, and licensing efforts—and seemingly endless potential applications—many end users remain disappointed that graphene has not fully delivered on its early promise. This has led to the common sentiment that “graphene can do everything—except make it out of the lab.”

This non-technical session will clarify that “graphene” is not a single material but a family of materials with different structures, properties, and best-fit applications. We will explore the strategic changes that are helping high-quality graphene move beyond the lab and into real-world use, including advances in policy, standardization, funding, and production.

The development timeline of graphene also offers valuable insights for technology transfer, CRADA, and SBIR/STTR professionals. Lessons from the past 20 years of graphene research can inform work in other hype-driven fields such as nanomaterials, batteries, carbon capture, green hydrogen, and quantum materials. By understanding the graphene cycle of hype, disappointment, and eventual delivery, emerging technologies may be better positioned to avoid similar pitfalls and reach maturity more efficiently.

Kevin Wyss, Avadain Graphene