Versarien PLC announced the launch of a “hugely promising” new hybrid nanomaterial with superparamagnetic properties that can be used in a number areas, including defence and healthcare.
The new material combines graphene with both iron oxide and manganese oxide nanoparticles that provide the material with magnetic properties. Meanwhile, the graphene provides electrical conductivity to these electrically insulating metal oxides, the advanced engineering materials group said in a statement.
One use for the new material could be in the treatment of wastewater, where pollutants are adsorbed onto the graphene surface. It can also be used in biomedical and biotechnology applications, or in defence applications that require the shielding of electromagnetic fields.
In addition, magnetic manipulation could allow the recovery and recycling of the graphene, something that cannot be done with normal graphene compounds, Versarien noted.
"The potential for this material is hugely promising,” said Versarien chief technology officer Steve Hodge. “Versarien is branching out into the next generation of nanomaterials, providing innovation to industries across the globe. The technical properties the superparamagnetic material offers are exciting and show that there is so much more potential for us to find innovative applications for other nanomaterials."
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The development of the superparamagnetic material has been led by Versarien's 62%-owned subsidiary, Gnanomat SL.
Roberto Clemente, CEO of Gnanomat, commented: "We believe this is the beginning of the next wave of nanomaterials. Using graphene combined with metal oxides, there are countless opportunities to change the way we view a number of industries. This superparamagnetic material is just the first step in an extensive line of innovation to come."
Versarien CEO Neill Ricketts added: "Our superparamagnetic material is the next product for Versarien to launch with its focus on providing efficient and sustainable solutions. Our research and development teams across the group have been working over the last few years to optimise the use of graphene, and we're pleased to be bringing the next phase of graphene materials to market."