In the mid-2000s, a wondrous new material emerged that seemed to possess almost magical properties. We were told that graphene could transform materials science ushering in a new era of innovation.
“Graphene may allow batteries to charge 5x faster!” the headlines declared. “Graphene makes cement 35% stronger!” This atomically thin form of carbon could purportedly do everything — it is stronger than steel, more conductive than copper, and enables flexible electronics, high-performance computing, and ultra-efficient water filtration.
The early hype was dizzying as scientists and journalists gushed about graphene’s limitless potential. Some called it a “miracle material” that would change the world. Venture capitalists and tech companies saw dollar signs. The European Union invested over €1 billion into graphene research. With such breathless proclamations and massive investments, how could graphene miss?
Well, the wonder material has yet to fully work its magic. We are not all walking around with graphene-enhanced mobile phones or driving graphene-fortified cars. The headlines have quieted down. Investors have grown impatient.
What happened? Why hasn’t graphene changed the world as predicted?
The early, excessive hype led to unrealistic short-term expectations. People imagined we would quickly see…
