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Graphene in Loudspeaker Membrane

Reference number
Coordinator Marten AB
Funding from Vinnova SEK 2 000 000
Project duration June 2019 - June 2022
Status Completed
Venture Strategic innovation program SIO Grafen
Call Collaborations for commercial applications with graphene – spring 2019

Important results from the project

The project aimed to develop a self-standing composite membrane made of graphene oxide and nanocellulose for high-end speakers and tweeters. After selecting suitable raw materials, flat membrane prototypes were designed and characterized, and then integrated into speaker drivers for testing. The translation into dome-shaped membranes was also investigated, and evaluations were conducted with driver manufacturers. Potential challenges in upscaling were discussed with external partners.

Expected long term effects

The main results from this project were that, despite displaying promising features for speaker membranes, composites made of nanocellulose and graphene oxide are difficult to produce to meet the specifications that grant integration in drivers. Owing to the 2D nature of graphene and to a wet process, defect management remains an issue that affect domes quality, even of moderate size (e.g. tweeters). The integration of graphene/nanocellulose in the form of a coating is a potential alternative that would require significant adjustments to the current production line.

Approach and implementation

The project plan had high ambitions and aimed at possible integration of the membrane within commercial systems within the course of the project. From a dome production perspective, a number of limitations have been encountered, impacting this aspect of the project, even on the performance evaluation side. We had to identify potential external partners to complement the expertise of the working group, and to learn to integrate our formulation within their materials. In conjunction with the pandemic situation, it took considerable time to manage some aspects of the project.

The project description has been provided by the project members themselves and the text has not been looked at by our editors.

Last updated 13 April 2023

Reference number 2019-02141