10119463FGR - Characterisation of acoustic cavitation in diaromatic systems for the production of graphene plateletsClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKFirst Graphene (UK) Ltd (FGR) have developed a unique process based on cavitation, which involves the formation, growth and collapse of vapour bubbles in a liquid due to rapid changes in pressure. This occurs over a very short timescale -- typically fractions of a second. When the vapour bubbles collapse, they convert pressure into heat energy. The intense energy that is released in the cavitation process can be applied to a range can be used in multiple processing technologies, such as waste-water treatment, biodiesel synthesis, water disinfection, the preparation of nano-emulsions and nanoparticle synthesis. Our patented process uses cavitation chemistry, which converts petroleum feedstocks into high purity graphitic products and clean hydrogen. These products play an important role in low carbon energy generation. High purity graphite is a critical material required for energy storage systems, including batteries used in the electric vehicle market. Hydrogen is a clean fuel that does not produce carbon dioxide emissions when used as an energy source. First Graphene has proven the technology at the laboratory scale - we are now seeking partners in the petrochemicals industry to develop a pilot plant to prove the capability at scale. In order to inform the process development and product development, we have a need to understand, characterise and optimise the fundamental process science. A successful Stage 2 Project will allow us to develop suitable analytical techniques that will allow us to understand and characterise the extent of cavitation; this will underpin our design basis for the technology and inform the scale up parameters - this will strengthen our position and enhance our credibility when approaching potential partners. This will allow us to seek and gain further funding to design and scale up our process, derisking our approach. As we grow the technology, it is highly likely we will increase our headcount in the UK, gain world-leading expertise and also provide an onshore graphite production capability. This will support the growth of the UK's automotive industry (electric vehicles) - this is aligned with national policy.