Graphene powder specialist Haydale will be collaborating with Northern Gas Networks (NGN) and the Energy Innovation Centre to investigate the feasibility of developing a graphene-based preheat solution for use on gas operational sites. Using graphene could be more efficient and reliable than existing systems and has in-built flexibility to either retrofit onto existing pipes or to be built into new heat exchangers, the company said. Development of graphene-based, high conductivity inks and coatings that can be applied to surfaces could provide even heating across large areas with a very thin profile. Haydale's patented HDPlas process can reportedly disperse nanomaterials into polymers and carriers. ‘The opportunity to demonstrate the feasibility of graphene-based heaters as a viable alternative to incumbent pre-heat systems presents a fantastic opportunity for Haydale in this innovative sector,’ said Dr Matthew Thornton, senior manager for Haydale Composite Solutions.
This story is adapted from material from Haydale, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.