Diamonds, renowned for their hardness and excellent thermal conductivity, have long been regarded as poor conductors of electricity. However, a collaborative effort by researchers from institutions such as Zhengzhou University, Henan Academy of Sciences, Ningbo University, and Jilin University has led to a groundbreaking achievement – the development of diamonds that can conduct electricity.
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Chinese Scientists Develop Electrically Conductive Diamonds
Harnessing Graphene to Unlock Conductive Diamonds
To create these conductive diamonds, the researchers turned to graphene, another form of carbon known for its exceptional electrical conductivity. By synthesizing centimeter-sized composites of diamond and graphene, they were able to produce diamonds that can effectively conduct electricity.
The process involved the formation of ultrafine diamond grains interconnected with graphene layers, achieved under moderate temperature conditions of 1,300 to 1,500 degrees Celsius and a pressure of 12 gigapascals.
Potential Applications for Conductive Diamonds
The composite structure of these new diamonds not only conducts electricity but also retains the renowned toughness and durability of diamonds. This unique combination makes them ideal for use in demanding environments, such as air and spacecraft engines, where both conductivity and extreme durability are essential.
Additionally, the researchers suggest that these conductive diamonds could be employed in electrocatalysis processes, such as sewage treatment, or in highly acidic or alkaline environments where extreme heat and durability are required.
Paving the Way for Industrial Applications
While the initial diamonds produced during the experimental stage were relatively small, with diameters of around 13 mm and thicknesses of no more than 2 mm, the researchers are confident in their ability to modify the size and shape to meet industrial demands.
“Our findings pave the way for realizing conductive and super hard large-sized diamond materials under mild synthetic conditions, facilitating their practical utilization in related industrial applications,” the researchers stated in their paper published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
As the world’s largest producer of lab-grown diamonds, China’s Zhengzhou region is well-positioned to further explore and commercialize these groundbreaking conductive diamonds, potentially revolutionizing various industries and applications.
