Graphenverbundwerkstoffe

Graphenverbund (literally "graphene composite") denotes a class of composite materials in which graphene or graphene-derived materials are embedded in a matrix—typically polymers, metals or ceramics—to combine the outstanding intrinsic properties of graphene with the macroscopic form and processability of the host. Variants include additions of graphene nanoplatelets, graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and chemically functionalized graphene.

In a Graphenverbund, graphene acts as a reinforcing phase and functional additive: it can greatly increase mechanical stiffness and strength, improve fracture toughness, enhance electrical and thermal conductivity, and provide barrier or flame-retardant effects. Typical production routes are melt blending, solution mixing, in situ polymerization for polymer-matrix systems, and powder metallurgy or spark plasma sintering for metal- and ceramic-matrix composites; surface functionalization and sonication are commonly used to improve dispersion and interfacial bonding.

Applications span aerospace and automotive structural parts, conductive or thermally conductive coatings, electromagnetic interference shielding, electrodes for batteries and supercapacitors, sensors and high-performance sporting goods. Key technical challenges include controlling graphene dispersion to avoid agglomeration, achieving robust interfacial bonding, maintaining reproducibility at scale and managing cost. Environmental, health and safety considerations—especially potential inhalation risks of nanoscale graphene—require standardized testing and life-cycle assessment. Ongoing research focuses on tailored functionalization, hierarchical architectures, scalable processing and integration with additive manufacturing to unlock broader industrial use.