Abu Dhabi University Launches Graphene Centre To Enhance Research And Innovation In Nanotechnology

Abu Dhabi University (ADU), in collaboration with Inovartic Investment and the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC), has unveiled its inaugural Graphene Centre. This facility, launched during ADIPEC 2024, aims to boost research and innovation in graphene technology. The launch event was attended by Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU, Saif Al Darmaki, Chairman and Co-Founder of Inovartic Investment, and SLINTEC's CEO Tushara Vajera Perera.

The Graphene Centre is poised to become a crucial hub for researchers, industry experts, and students. It will offer cutting-edge facilities and resources to support pioneering research projects and innovative graphene applications. The centre will also focus on fostering international collaborations, highlighting the importance of global partnerships in driving technological advancements.

Graphene is derived from graphite and consists solely of carbon, a fundamental element found in nature. This material is present in everyday items like pencil lead, biomedical devices, and wearable technologies. Known for its strength, flexibility, and high resistance, graphene is a standout material with potential applications across numerous industries.

The initiative aims to promote scientific progress in nanotechnology across various sectors such as electronics, oil, medical fields, electric vehicle batteries, water treatment, agriculture, paints, materials science, and energy. By advancing research in graphene through collaboration with Inovartic and SLINTEC, ADU seeks to uncover new uses for this unique material.

Professor Ghassan Aouad emphasised the significance of graphene in infrastructure across multiple industries. He stated that advancing graphene research aligns with the "Make it in the UAE" initiative. This collaboration not only strengthens ADU's commitment to innovation but also positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in nanotechnology research.

Saif Al Darmaki expressed enthusiasm about partnering with ADU to establish the Graphene Centre. He noted that this centre represents a significant milestone for Inovartic Investment. "We believe that this center will not only drive groundbreaking research but also create opportunities for sustainable technological advancements that can benefit both the UAE and the global community," he said.

Impact on Science and Technology

Tushara Vajera Perera highlighted the importance of this development for nanotechnology research. "The launch of the Abu Dhabi University Graphene Centre is a remarkable development for nanotechnology research," he remarked. SLINTEC looks forward to collaborating on innovative projects that will have a lasting impact on science and technology.

ADU’s College of Engineering is actively participating in ADIPEC 2024 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Visitors can explore student projects showcased at the university’s stand. These projects demonstrate innovations in key areas related to sustainability, energy consumption, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, among others.

This three-way partnership underscores the value of international cooperation in fostering innovation. The Graphene Centre is set to play a pivotal role in advancing scientific knowledge while contributing to sustainable technological progress both locally and globally.

With inputs from WAM