Some of the biggest issues here are likely from a lack of clear distinction and definition. While all graphite's are carbon, not all carbon is graphite. As an allo of carbon, one of many hundreds, graphene is as unique as diamonds (ALSO an allotrope of carbon). But graphene it is a very specific description, limited to a molecular two-dimensional form! Nearly clear in one view, and all but completely invisible from another perpendicular view. In such a molecular layer, it's hundreds of time stronger than steel,... of course a molecular layer of steel is by it's very nature much thicker simply because it is 3-dimentional molecular compound. AND this is what so unique of graphene,.... it's molecular scale and structure. Although a sheet of graphene probably won't compare to a sheet of aluminum foil either!!! Being THOUSANDS of times thicker, the aluminum foil is certainly stronger in such a poor two-dimensional comparison. And in a "tiny 2-dimentional flake" form blended in a polymer base,.... neither will be able to exhibit their unique qualities of which both are inherently and uniquely capable. In of itself, it's jus a molecule of carbon,.... but as the perfect basic carbon molecular structure of 3-D allos like nano-tubes and assorted fullers, it WILL be important!!! Kinda like the various aggregates of concrete,... all being rock! But it's the various grades, structure, texture, and size that's important to the desired need. To define graphene as the single most important element, of graphite and carbon composites, is comparable to defining rock as the single most important element of concrete,... rather vague and indistinct. But when considering the possible 3-D components from graphene or rock,... we can define the true virtues of composites and concrete.
It's also not likely that graphite and various carbon allotropes will replace the steel reinforcement used in structural concrete either, jus as steel or rock won't serve as a structural component or reinforcement of poly-composites. It's a matter of the molecular nature of such materials combining in unison with one another. Yes, Iron becomes unique with carbon,... but other minerals and elements are far more important in concrete. Jus as stable carbon molecules are in hydrocarbon composites!!!!
Scotch tape and graphite, IS NOT an indefinite molecule of graphene on a poly base!!! But individual molecules of graphite and graphene structures, it doesn't make the tape stronger. But it did lead to a unique, single, perfect, two dimensional, stable molecule of a carbon allo of which 3-D tubes, fullers, buckys and more may be constructed. These 3-D "components" will form a perfect and incredibly strong "poly" yet to be discovered. If such a poly is stable enough,.... some incredible structures can be built. IF various or specific hydrocarbon and poly molecules can attach in a meaningful and useful manner to even a single bit of graphene's molecule,.... some HUGE benefits will be seen. Much like a step from the Iron age into the age of steel with little than carbon, and a new found technology. The future isn't "applying" graphene, like a flour, dust, spray or even spun fibers,.... but COMBINING molecules of carbons graphene and allos with various poly molecules to create a uniqueness of it own.
Too many can only see "componants",.... cloth, fibers, beads, flakes, dust etc., but graphite is to polys, what carbon is to iron!!! Ya cant dust iron and call it steel!!!! And dusting nylons, polymers, etc,.... will not make a superior product either! Carbon fibers are pretty AWESOME,... but fail miserably in many applications and composites. Graphene will be no different. Untill those molecular secrets are further unlocked.
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