CuproGraf: readily accessible copper of enhanced electrical conductivity

Graphene was encapsulated within the crystal lattice of Cu via the chemical route to molecularly doped metals affording an excellent electrical conductor dubbed herein “CuproGraf”. Metal bars in CuproGraf embedding less than 0.5 wt% graphene obtained by heating followed by hot rolling have electrical conductivity as high as 7% of bars made from pure copper. Considering the ease of CuproGraf preparation, and that substantial room for improvement exists by adopting a different CuproGraf powder agglomeration route, the method is promising towards replacement of silver-plated copper wires or similar enhanced conductors wherein higher conductivity than that of copper is required.