Graphene Mask Inactivates Coronaviruses

Graphene Mask Inactivates Coronaviruses

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science & Technology

In news

• Recently, the researchers from the City University of Hong Kong have produced a laser-induced form of graphene masks that inactivate the coronavirus species.
• The researchers are also planning to test this mask on the Covid-19 (SARS-Cov-2) virus.

Key takeaways

• All carbon-containing materials, such as cellulose or paper, can be converted into graphene. 
• The researchers described the production of laser-induced graphene as a “green technique.”
• Benefits: (1) It is reusable; (2) Can also be produced at low cost

Important value additions

Graphene

• It is a single layer (monolayer) of carbon atoms. 
• It is the building-block of Graphite.
• It is the strongest known material.
• Other Properties: (1) High thermal stability; (2) High elasticity; (3) High electrical conductivity; etc.
• Uses: It can be used in miniaturised electronics to biomedical devices like computers, solar panels, etc.

Do you know?

• Diamond, graphite and fullerenes are the important allotropes of pure carbon.
• Allotropy: Property of some chemical elements to exist in two or more different forms, in the same physical state.
• Graphene is also known for antibacterial properties.