The team, led by Professor Sir Andre Geim, used a technique called "nano-indentation" to apply pressure to graphene, causing it to change from its hexagonal crystal structure to a rectangular structure. This is the first time that graphene has been shown to undergo such a transformation.
The discovery could have important implications for the future of graphene-based electronics, as it could allow for the creation of new materials with different properties.
Graphene is a two-dimensional material made of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. It is the strongest material ever measured, and it is also an excellent conductor of electricity and heat. However, graphene is also very brittle, which has limited its use in practical applications.
The new discovery shows that graphene can be made more flexible by changing its crystal structure. This could allow for the creation of graphene-based materials that are more durable and easier to work with.
The team of physicists from the University of Manchester used a technique called "nano-indentation" to apply pressure to graphene. This caused the graphene to change from its hexagonal crystal structure to a rectangular structure.
The researchers believe that the change in crystal structure is due to the fact that the pressure applied to the graphene causes the carbon atoms to move closer together. This results in a stronger bond between the atoms, which makes the graphene more flexible.
The discovery could have important implications for the future of graphene-based electronics. For example, it could allow for the creation of flexible graphene-based displays and solar cells.
The team of physicists from the University of Manchester is continuing to study the properties of graphene in order to better understand how it can be used in practical applications.
