June 24, 2014
Graphite miner Kibaran Resources has partnered with a 3D printing company to investigate opportunities for the application of graphite and graphene in the fast growing 3D printing market.
The 3D printing industry is evolving rapidly. A key development underway is the application of graphene in the 3D printing process. As a emerging material Graphene could change the way electronic components are made. Graphene is a two dimensional material consisting of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb or chicken wire structure. It is the thinnest material known and also is the strongest material ever measured, some 200 times stronger than structural steel. Graphene conducts electricity as efficiently as copper and outperforms all other materials as a conductor of heat. Graphene is almost completely transparent, yet so dense that even the smallest atom helium cannot pass through it.
"Graphene has the potential to significantly expand 3D printing applications and – based on the predictions of some commentators - even drive a new industrial revolution." Kibaran said.
Kibaran is developing its Mahenge and Merelani graphite deposits in Tanzania, with the aim of becoming a stable and secure supplier of natural flake graphite. Kibaran Resources has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with 3D Group, an emerging marketer of 3D printing systems and services to work together on research of using graphene to print solid objects from digital files.
The key points of the MoU are as follows:
- To establish a joint research and development company '3D Graphtech Industries' by the end of 2014;
- Pursue research and patents for graphite and graphene applications for 3D printing;
- Engage in collaborative research programs;
- Seek value-add partnerships to develop and pursue opportunities in the area of graphite, graphene and 3D printing;
- Graphite to be sourced exclusively from Kibaran's projects.
Kibaran executive director Andrew Spinks said 3D printing technology had the potential to bring about a quantum shift in the way the world produces new materials and products, including whole structures or individual components, in a raft of new industries.
"The strategic alliance with 3D Group positions Kibaran as a potential supplier of expanded graphite and graphene products through the mine supply chain, and creates additional shareholder value in the downstream sector."
Mr Spinks said the memorandum of understanding with the 3D Group would not deter from the company's main focus of advancing its graphite projects in Tanzania.
Watch below a video made by company 3M describing the future applications of graphene:
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
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incredible futuristic technology and we will still be using washing machines :$
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