What is graphene?
THE graphene is a revolutionary material that has caught the attention of scientists and industries around the world. It is made up of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal pattern, similar to the shape of a honeycomb.
Because it is extremely thin, just one atom thick, graphene It is considered the thinnest material ever discovered, besides being incredibly strong and light.
One of the most remarkable properties of graphene is its electrical and thermal conductivity. It is an excellent conductor, even better than copper, which makes it ideal for electronics applications, such as batteries and electronic device components.
Furthermore, he is transparent and flexible, allowing its use in touch screens and foldable electronic devices.
In industry, it is used in a variety of applications, from manufacturing sensors and transistors to creating stronger, lighter composite materials.
Medicine has also explored the potential applications of graphene, such as in the development of drug delivery systems and new forms of diagnostics.
However, despite all these qualities, it is important to understand the potential risks associated with the use of graphene, especially when it comes to its interaction with the human body. In the next topic, we will explore its toxicity and how it can affect health.
What does graphene do in the human body?
The impact of graphene in the human body is a topic that is still being extensively researched, but initial studies suggest that it may interact in complex ways with cells and tissues.
When graphene enters the body, whether through inhalation, ingestion or skin contact, it can bind to different types of cells, which can trigger a series of biological reactions.
One of the main mechanisms of action of graphene in the human body is its ability to generate oxidative stress. This happens when it interacts with cells, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cellular components such as DNA, proteins and cell membranes.
Oxidative stress is associated with several health conditions, including chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer.
On the other hand, graphene has also shown potential in medical applications, such as drug delivery and photothermal therapy for the treatment of tumors.
Due to its high surface area and ability to bind to specific molecules, graphene can be used to transport drugs directly to target cells, increasing treatment efficacy and reducing side effects.
However, the risks associated with exposure to graphene cannot be ignored. Some studies indicate that inhaling particles of this material can cause lung damage, similar to what occurs with other fine particles.
Furthermore, the accumulation of graphene in tissues can lead to unwanted immune responses such as inflammation and fibrosis.
Although it offers promises significant to medicine and other industries, it is crucial to continue studying their effects on the human body to ensure that their use is safe.
What are the benefits of graphene?
Graphene is often described as a material of the future due to its vast potential for applications in various areas, especially in health and technology.
Its unique combination of properties, such as high electrical conductivity, strength, lightness and flexibility, paves the way for innovations that can transform entire industries.
In the field of health, graphene is being explored for a variety of medical applications. One of the most promising areas is delivery of medicines.
Due to its large surface area, graphene can be used as a efficient vehicle to transport drugs directly to target cells, increasing the effectiveness of treatments and minimizing side effects.
Additionally, graphene is being studied in therapies fight against cancer, where it can be used to heat tumor cells through photothermal therapy, destroying them in a precise and controlled manner.
Another area where graphene excels is in the creation of biomedical sensors highly sensitive. These sensors can detect the presence of biomarkers at extremely low concentrations, facilitating the early diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Graphene is also being explored for the development of lighter and more resistant prosthetics, as well as in tissue engineering, where it can help in cell regeneration and wound healing.
Outside the health field, the benefits extend to technology and electronics. Thanks to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, it is already being incorporated into high-capacity batteries and supercapacitors, which promise faster charging and greater durability for electronic devices.
It is also being used in the development of flexible and transparent screens, which could revolutionize the next generation of smartphones and other portable devices.
Additionally, graphene can be incorporated into composite materials, making them lighter and stronger at the same time, which is particularly useful in the aerospace and automotive industries. These composites can result in more fuel-efficient vehicles with better overall performance.
While the benefits of graphene are vast and promising, it is essential to continue research to better understand the risks and ensure its application is safe.
Why don't we use graphene in everything?
Despite all its incredible potential, the graphene still faces a number of barriers that prevent its large-scale adoption. One of the biggest challenges is the production cost.
Producing high-quality graphene in sufficient quantities for commercial applications is a complex and expensive process. Large-scale manufacturing requires sophisticated equipment and rigorous conditions, which makes the material more expensive and makes it unviable for use in mass-market consumer products.
In addition to the cost, there are technical difficulties associated with handling and integration into different products. Because it is an extremely thin and light material, it is difficult to handle and incorporate into conventional industrial processes.
Its integration into electronics, for example, requires new technologies and adaptations in manufacturing processes, which represents a huge obstacle for many companies.
Another crucial factor preventing widespread use is the safety concerns. Although research is progressing, there is still uncertainty about the long-term effects of exposure to graphene, both for workers involved in its production and for end consumers.
The safety of graphene in different forms needs to be fully understood before it can be widely adopted, especially in medical and food applications.
In addition to safety and cost concerns, the lack of clear rules and regulations also limits its use. Without established guidelines on how graphene should be produced, handled and disposed of, companies may be reluctant to invest heavily in its adoption.
More precise and well-defined regulations are needed to ensure safety and facilitate safe trading worldwide.
While it remains a promise for the future, these challenges need to be overcome for it to become an integral part of our everyday lives.
What products have graphene?
THE graphene is already present in several products available on the market, although still in a limited way. Here are some examples where you can find it:
1. Packaging of products and food: Gerdau, a Brazilian company, has launched a new graphene packaging for its nail line. This packaging is much more resistant than plastic, offering better protection and durability. In addition, the Tetra Pak is evaluating the application of graphene in its food and beverage packaging. It can increase the strength of packaging and improve product preservation.
2. Running shoes: Some running shoes, such as the Graphene Run from the Brazilian brand Olympikus use this material in their soles to increase durability and traction, providing a lighter and more resistant running experience, in addition to improving runners' performance and propulsion.
3. Bicycle: The Dassi Bike manufactures bicycles with frames made of graphene. According to the brand, the frame can weigh up to 400 grams, while a regular bicycle frame weighs on average 2.5 kg. This represents a difference of 2.1 kg, about six times lighter, highlighting the lightness of this material compared to traditional materials.
4. Face masks: Some masks are coated with graphene for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping to neutralize bacteria and viruses, increasing the effectiveness in preventing diseases.
5. Electronic devices: Graphene is used in batteries, such as Real Graphene branded G-Pro Series, providing twice as fast charging times and longer charge duration, supercapacitors from smartphones and tablets and heat sink like in smartphone Huawei Mate 30 Pro.
6. Sports equipment: Bike helmets like the Mixino Helmet by Catlike, tennis rackets like the Graphene 360+ by Head and sportswear incorporates graphene to improve strength and durability, as well as reduce weight. In clothing, its heat-conducting properties help regulate body temperature.
7. Car helmets: Helmets used on motorcycles such as the Urban Cafe Racer Double D Graph-X by Brazilian brand Urban Helmet, and car competitions are beginning to include graphene in their construction. The material improves impact resistance without increasing weight, offering greater protection and comfort to drivers.
8. Weapons and vests: Companies like the Brazilian brand Taurus are exploring the use of graphene in two areas, including the military sector. It is used in the development of ballistic materials, increasing the resistance and durability of bulletproof vests and other protective equipment. The use of graphene provides better performance against oxidation, preventing corrosion and increasing service life. In addition, it enhances mechanical properties, such as impact resistance and heat dissipation, and reduces the weight of weapons.
9. Civil construction: In the construction sector, it is being incorporated into graphene rebars, as in Vergraf. These rebars are bars used to produce reinforced concrete, commonly used in building foundations, sidewalks, walls, beams and pillars. Traditionally made of steel, graphene rebars offer greater strength and durability, in addition to improving the properties of concrete, making it lighter and more resistant to adverse conditions.
10. Vehicle armoring: Graphene is also beginning to be used in vehicle armor. Armor plates and glass made from this material offer greater protection against impacts and projectiles, while keeping the weight of vehicles low. These properties contribute to better impact resistance and greater durability of armor materials, providing greater safety without compromising vehicle performance.
11. High performance bicycle and motorcycle tires: Graphene is being incorporated into bicycle and motorcycle tires to improve their performance. The addition provides greater durability and wear resistance, as well as increasing grip and traction on different surfaces. This results in better performance and safety.
12. Headphones: The headphones of Graphene Q ORA use graphene in their drivers. Improving sound quality, providing clearer and more detailed audio, as well as increasing the durability of internal components.
13. Jackets: The Alpha Series Graphene-X is a jacket that uses graphene in its composition. This jacket is designed to be extremely resistant, offering superior durability. In addition, this material provides thermal comfort by helping to regulate body temperature. The jacket is also waterproof, thanks to the properties of graphene, which offers additional protection against extreme weather conditions.
14. Fishing rod: Stealth Graphene, manufactured by Century, is a high-performance fishing rod made with graphene. This advanced material provides a combination of lightness and strength, allowing the rod to support heavy fish with ease. It improves the durability and sensitivity of the rod, offering greater control and precision during fishing, in addition to withstanding the stresses required by large and heavy fish.
15. State-of-the-art medical implants: THE ICFO Patch is an advanced medical implant that uses graphene to provide continuous health monitoring. In practice, this patch is used to monitor vital signs and health conditions, such as glucose level, blood pressure, hydration, oxygen saturation, precise body temperature, UV absorbed by the sun and other important parameters. It is in the form of a super thin sticker, which simply sticks on the skin, providing discreet and efficient monitoring.
16. Solar panels: Graphene is being incorporated into solar panels to improve the efficiency of converting solar energy into electricity. Its high electrical and thermal conductivity allows solar panels to conduct electricity more efficiently and distribute heat more evenly. This results in increased efficiency and longer lifespan of solar panels. Additionally, it can help reduce the cost of producing the panels.
17. Medicine: Graphene is beginning to be used in biomedical sensors for early diagnosis of diseases and in drug delivery systems, increasing efficacy and reducing side effects.
Is there a risk of cross-contamination of graphene products and packaging with the human body?
THE graphene, an innovative material with numerous applications, has raised concerns about its safety, especially with regard to cross-contamination.
But, after all, can contact with products and packaging that contain this substance pose any risk to human health?
What is cross contamination?
Cross-contamination is when a substance, such as graphene particles, passes from a product or packaging into the human body. This can happen, for example, if you inhale particles in the air or if they come into contact with your skin.
Risk of cross-contamination of graphene
The risk of contamination depends largely on how the graphene is produced and incorporated into products. If it is well mixed or trapped within the material, the chance of it escaping and causing problems is much lower.
However, exposure can happen in different ways depending on how it is used, see the next topic.
How can graphene come into contact with the body?
Imagine you have a product that contains graphene, and it ends up breaking. Out of curiosity, you decide to take the graphene material and start manipulate it with your hands. Then, without realizing it, put your hands to your eyes, mouth or nose, or even smell the broken material.
This type of direct contact can be dangerous, as small particles of this substance can be inhaled or come into contact with mucous membranes, causing irritation or other health problems.
Another example may occur in industrial environments, where graphene can be present in powder form or in liquid suspension. If you work in a factory where it is handled, there is a risk of inhale these particles that are in the air.
Inhalation is one of the biggest concerns because these particles can settle in the lungs, causing inflammation and respiratory damage.
Contact with the skin can also be harmful, especially if the graphene is not well encapsulated, resulting in irritation.
How to avoid cross-contamination of graphene?
The good news is that most of the time, graphene is well protected inside the products, which means it does not come loose easily. This greatly reduces the risk of contamination.
Factories that work with this material follow strict rules to ensure that it does not escape and contaminate other products or people. For example, they use protective equipment for workers and ensure that graphene is well sealed in packaging and products.
Even so, it is important to take some precautions with products that contain this material. These products can be much better in several aspects, but it is advisable avoid actions such as breaking, ingesting, smelling or scraping these materials.
While minor accidents and occasional exposures to small amounts of graphene are probably not a concern, especially if it is well protected, it is always good practice avoid exploiting this material in unconventional and recommended ways.
Furthermore, as there is not yet a complete scientific consensus on the potential risks of graphene in everyday use, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid unnecessary exposure until more conclusive studies are available.
What are the symptoms of graphene contamination and toxicity?
Exposure to graphene can potentially lead to some symptoms, especially if proper safety measures are not followed.
Although research on the amount and effects of exposure is still evolving, the following symptoms are associated with graphene contamination:
General symptoms: In rarer cases and with prolonged exposure, systemic symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and malaise may occur. However, these symptoms are not widely documented and require further research for a full understanding.
Respiratory irritation: Inhaling graphene particles can cause irritation to the airways and lungs. Symptoms include persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort. Studies suggest that fine particles can affect the respiratory system, especially if there is prolonged exposure or in high concentrations.
Skin irritation: Direct contact with graphene, especially in powder or suspension form, can cause skin reactions. Symptoms include redness, rashes, itching, and local inflammation. It is important to use personal protective equipment when handling this material to minimize the risk of direct contact.
Eye irritation: Graphene particles can cause eye irritation, leading to symptoms such as redness, excessive tearing, a gritty sensation, and eye discomfort. Proper eye protection is essential to avoid exposure to particles.
General symptoms: In rarer cases and with prolonged exposure, systemic symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and malaise may occur. However, these symptoms are not widely documented and require further research for a full understanding.
Sources and bibliographic references:
* Bianco, A. (2013), Graphene: Safe or Toxic? The Two Faces of the Medal. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 52: 4986-4997. https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.201209099
* Cavallo, D., Ursini, CL, Fresegna, AM, Ciervo, A., Boccuni, F., Ferrante, R., … Iavicoli, S. (2022). A follow-up study on workers involved in the graphene production process after the introduction of exposure mitigation measures: evaluation of genotoxic and oxidative effects. Nanotoxicology, 16(6–8), 776–790. https://doi.org/10.1080/17435390.2022.2149359
* Promising Graphene-Based Nanomaterials and Their Biomedical Applications and Potential Risks: A Comprehensive ReviewJie Li, Huamin Zeng, Zhaowu Zeng, Yiying Zeng, and Tian XieACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering 2021 7 (12), 5363-5396DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c00875 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c00875
* Devasena, T., Francis, A.P., Ramaprabhu, S. (2021). Graphene toxicity: an update. In: de Voogt, P. (eds) Environmental Contamination and Toxicology Reviews Volume 259. Environmental Contamination and Toxicology Reviews, Vol 259. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/398_2021_78
* Spinazzè, A., Cattaneo, A., Campagnolo, D., Bollati, V., Bertazzi, PA, & Cavallo, DM (2016). Engineered nanomaterials exposure in the production of graphene. Aerosol Science and Technology, 50(8), 812–821. https://doi.org/10.1080/02786826.2016.1195906
* Safety Assessment of Graphene-Based Materials: Focus on Human Health and the EnvironmentBengt Fadeel, Cyrill Bussy, Sonia Merino, Ester Vázquez, Emmanuel Flahaut, Florence Mouchet, Lauris Evariste, Laury Gauthier, Antti J. Koivisto, Ulla Vogel, Cristina Martín, Lucia G. Delogu, Tina Buerki-Thurnherr, Peter Wick, Didier Beloin-Saint-Pierre, Roland Hischier, Marco Pelin, Fabio Candotto Carniel, Mauro Tretiach, Fabrizia Cesca, Fabio Benfenati, Denis Scaini, Laura Ballerini, Kostas Kostarelos, Maurizio Prato , and Alberto BiancoACS Nano 2018 12 (11), 10582-10620DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.8b04758 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsnano.8b04758
* Hashim, N., Abdullah, S. & Yusoh, K. Graphene nanomaterials in the food industries: quality control in promising food safety to consumers. Graphene and 2D matter 7, 1–29 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41127-021-00045-5
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