Gerdau Graphene Contributes To Adoption Of Brazilian Standard For Graphene Characterization; Hosts Annual International Nanotechnology Consortium In São Paulo, Brazil

In a significant move for the nanotechnology sector, Gerdau Graphene, a leading company in the development of graphene-enhanced materials for industrial use, has announced that Brazil has aligned with an international industry standard for graphene. This development, facilitated by Brazil's National Standards Forum (ABNT), mirrors the global standard established under ISO/TC 229 – Nanotechnologies, which saw collaboration from over 30 countries, including Brazil. The standard is designed to accurately define the various products within the graphene category, thereby facilitating the advancement of new technologies.

From April 8-12, 2024, São Paulo, Brazil, will host an international consortium of nanotechnology researchers and industry leaders. This gathering under ISO/TC 229 – Nanotechnologies will delve into crucial topics such as terminology, measurement and characterization, and the health, safety, and environmental impacts of nanotechnologies. This initiative underscores the growing importance of graphene in the global market, driven by its increasing demand and technological progress.

Valdirene Sullas Teixeira Peressinotto, Executive Director and Innovation at Gerdau Graphene and a key figure in ABNT's Special Nanotechnology Study Commission (ABNT/CEE-089), highlighted the challenges faced due to the lack of standardized norms. The collaboration between industry stakeholders and ABNT aims to streamline the material's entire chain to bolster new product development. The publication of this standard is expected to significantly speed up graphene's integration into various industries.

ABNT/CEE-089 has been instrumental in publishing eight standards so far, with ten more projects underway. Among these, four are integral to ABNT NBR ISO 80004 series, focusing on nanotechnology vocabulary and material specifications.

Mario William Esper, president of ABNT, emphasized the role of this new standard in promoting graphene's scientific progress and its potential to generate substantial economic benefits for Brazil. Graphene's exceptional properties such as high mechanical strength, lightness, and superior thermal and electrical conductivity have made it a focal point for industries aiming to enhance product performance in areas like paint, cement, packaging, and lubricants. Additionally, its application in next-generation battery technologies positions graphene as a pivotal element in the green energy transition.

Brazil stands as the world's third-largest supplier of graphite, the primary source material for graphene. The market value for graphene is projected to exceed $6 billion within five years, highlighting its significant economic potential.

Gerdau Graphene was established in 2021 by Gerdau through its Gerdau Next program. As the largest producer of long steel in the Americas, Gerdau aims to leverage graphene's revolutionary properties to deliver superior products across various sectors including polymers, paints and coatings, and rubber.

ABNT has been at the forefront of Brazilian standardization since its inception on September 28, 1940. It plays a critical role in developing Brazilian Standards (NBR) across diverse sectors. ABNT's certification programs span products, systems, and greenhouse gas verification, ensuring compliance with stringent quality criteria recognized globally.