North West universities launch world's first graphene drone test flight

Two North West universities have teamed up to study the application of graphene in drone technology, launching the world’s first test flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) partly constructed with the two-dimensional material.

The collaborative effort between the University of Manchester’s National Graphene Institute and the University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC), conducted in Preston, saw researchers fly a UAV containing graphene components to test the material’s robustness and aerodynamic properties.

UCLan’s engineering innovation manager, Billy Beggs, said: “This demonstration was a world first and our initial flight tests have been very encouraging.

“Graphene has huge potential for aerospace; it is incredibly strong, yet lightweight and flexible at the same time. Through our partnership with the National Graphene Institute at the University of Manchester, and alongside a number of Lancashire-based SMEs, we aim to develop a route map that enables graphene to play a key role in the future development of the aviation industry.”

He added: “The phrase ‘Northern Powerhouse’ is sometimes overused but this is a real and fantastic example of expertise within the public and private sectors working together for the long term benefit of our local, regional and national economies.”

The researchers are also hoping to discover how the material, which is 200 times stronger than steel, can be integrated in the manufacturing process.

James Baker, the National Graphene Institute’s graphene business director, commented: “The aim is to investigate the potential effects of graphene in drag reduction, thermal management and ultimately the ability to achieve lightning strike protection for aerospace and other related opportunities.

“Working with a number of universities and SMEs we aim to provide further demonstrations and enhance engagement between academia and the supply chain to achieve the goals of commercialising graphene applications.”

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