June 25, 2024
1 min read

Chinese probe finds natural few-layer graphene in lunar soil samples

Graphene plays an increasingly important role in extensive areas, including planetary and space science….reports Asian Lite News

Chinese researchers have for the first time discovered natural few-layer graphene in the lunar soil samples brought back by the Chang’e-5 mission, following observation and analysis of the samples.

The study, jointly conducted by researchers from Jilin University, the Institute of Metal Research under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, China’s deep space exploration laboratory, and the Lunar Exploration and Space Program Center of the China National Space Administration, was published in the journal National Science Review.

Graphene plays an increasingly important role in extensive areas, including planetary and space science. It is estimated that graphene makes up about 1.9 percent of total interstellar carbon. The composition and structure characterization of natural graphene therefore can provide rich information on the geologic evolution of parent bodies.

Researchers used the correlative Scanning Electron Microscope/Raman technique to collect Raman spectra in several spots with relatively high carbon content in the lunar soil samples, confirming that the crystalline quality of the graphite carbon in the samples is relatively high.

They also explored and confirmed that the graphite carbon detected in the samples is few-layer graphene, reaching this conclusion through the comprehensive application of various characterization techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy, along with rigorous comparative analysis of test results from multiple perspectives.

The study offers new insights into the geological activities and evolutionary history of the moon, as well as its environmental characteristics. It also broadens understanding of the complex mineral composition of lunar soil, and provides important information and clues for the in-situ utilization of lunar resources.

In addition, researchers proposed that the formation of few-layer graphene and graphite carbon may stem from a mineral catalysis process jointly induced by the solar wind and early volcanic eruptions on the moon.

ALSO READ: Srinagar recognised as ‘World Craft City’

Previous Story

Canada, after US and EU, mulls tariffs on Chinese-made EVs

Next Story

‘Pak suffers PKR 600 bn loss annually due to power theft’

Latest from -Top News

Beijing Targets Hong Kong Democracy

Latest annual UN report highlighted the growing and sophisticated trend of cross-border repression targeting human rights activists…reports Asian Lite News The United Nations, in its latest report on reprisals, revealed that two

Clearing A Mess in Gaza

Municipalities across Gaza have mobilized their limited resources to clear streets and set up temporary shelters for thousands of displaced families…reports Asian Lite News The conflict has left behind an estimated 55

Gaza, Malaysia to help Gaza Rebuild

Egyptian, Malaysian leaders discuss Gaza aid, reconstruction amid ceasefire…reports Asian Lite News Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim spoke by phone about efforts to support Gaza’s reconstruction,

Netanyahu to Run Again in 2026

When asked whether he expects to win, Netanyahu said, “Yes.”…reports Asian Lite News Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed his bid for re-election in the 2026 parliamentary polls. He made the

Lula Calls for Independent Latin America

The remarks came as Brazil and the United States began thawing relations following the tariffs of up to 50 per cent …reports Asian Lite News Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Deadly car bombing at Pak hotel hosting Chinese ambassador

China’s ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong was staying at the

India-France Discuss G2G Cooperation

Both sides also discussed the implementation of the recently signed