---
title: ""A UK-based team of researchers has created a graphene-based sieve…"
date: 2019-03-06
source: facebook
type: Archer T. Ships shared a link.
---

# "A UK-based team of researchers has created a graphene-based sieve…

*March 6, 2019 · Facebook*

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[https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-39482342](https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-39482342){target="_blank"}
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\"A UK-based team of researchers has created a graphene-based sieve capable of removing salt from seawater.\
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The sought-after development could aid the millions of people without ready access to clean drinking water.\
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The promising graphene oxide sieve could be highly efficient at filtering salts, and will now be tested against existing desalination membranes.\
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It has previously been difficult to manufacture graphene-based barriers on an industrial scale.\
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Reporting their results in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, scientists from the University of Manchester, led by Dr Rahul Nair, show how they solved some of the challenges by using a chemical derivative called graphene oxide.\
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Isolated and characterised by a University of Manchester-led team in 2004, graphene comprises a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. Its unusual properties, such as extraordinary tensile strength and electrical conductivity, have earmarked it as one of the most promising materials for future applications.\
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But it has been difficult to produce large quantities of single-layer graphene using existing methods, such as chemical vapour deposition (CVD). Current production routes are also quite costly.\
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On the other hand, said Dr Nair, \"graphene oxide can be produced by simple oxidation in the lab\".\
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He told BBC News: \"As an ink or solution, we can compose it on a substrate or porous material. Then we can use it as a membrane.\"\
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[https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-39482342](https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-39482342){target="_blank"}
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