Copper-graphene composite: the next laser heat-exchanger material?

April 11, 2012
Raleigh, NC--At North Carolina State University, assistant professor Jag Kasichainula has created a graphene-based cooling technique for lasers and other optoelectronics, as well as for power electronics.

Raleigh, NC--At North Carolina State University, assistant professor Jag Kasichainula has created a graphene-based cooling technique for laser diodes and other optoelectronics, as well as for power electronics.1 A composite of graphene in a copper matrix (prepared by electrochemical codeposition from a copper sulfate solution with suspended graphene oxide) shows a thermal conductivity about 25% greater than that of pure copper.

At room temperature, the copper-graphene composite has a thermal conductivity of 380 W/m.K, compared to copper’s 460 W/m.K. The new composite exhibits thermal conductivity of 510 W/m.K at 250 K (–23 C) and 440 W/m.K at 350 K (77 C).

“Both the copper-graphene and indium-graphene have higher thermal conductivity, allowing the device to cool efficiently,” says Kasichainula. “The copper-graphene composite is also low-cost and easy to produce. Copper is expensive, so replacing some of the copper with graphene actually lowers the overall cost.”

(However, if cost is no object, use diamondit has a thermal conductivity of about 1000 W/m.K.)

REFERENCE:

1. K. Jagannadham, Metallurgical and Materials Transactions B (2012); DOI: 10.1007/s11663-011-9597-z

About the Author

John Wallace | Senior Technical Editor (1998-2022)

John Wallace was with Laser Focus World for nearly 25 years, retiring in late June 2022. He obtained a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and physics at Rutgers University and a master's in optical engineering at the University of Rochester. Before becoming an editor, John worked as an engineer at RCA, Exxon, Eastman Kodak, and GCA Corporation.

Sponsored Recommendations

Achromatic Lenses: High-Quality Custom Optics

March 13, 2025
Ensure clarity and accuracy in your optics systems with Lacroix’s achromatic lenses. Explore how our custom solutions minimize chromatic aberration for perfect results.

Manufacturing Considerations for Tolerancing Aspheres

March 13, 2025
Understand the critical factors in manufacturing aspheres and how Lacroix Optics ensures precise tolerancing in every optical component.

Explore Our Videos: Insights into Precision Optics

March 13, 2025
Get an inside look at Lacroix Optics with our collection of informative videos showcasing our capabilities, innovations, and processes.

Optical Assemblies: Reliable and Precise Solutions

March 13, 2025
Ensure your optical system works seamlessly with Lacroix Optics' custom optical assemblies. Discover the precision and reliability we bring to every project.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!