First Graphene completes successful trial of graphene-enhanced safety boots
First Graphene has completed successful prototype trials with safety boot manufacturer Steel Blue. This marks the first time graphene has been successfully incorporated into a thermoplastic polyurethane masterbatch, offering enhanced durability and resistance.
SYDNEY – September 2, 2019 – First Graphene Ltd. announced today the successful completion of prototype trials with Steel Blue, a global manufacturer of work boots, for the development of graphene-enhanced safety footwear. This development is the first instance of graphene being successfully incorporated into a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) masterbatch, promising significant advantages including enhanced wear and chemical resistance, improved thermal heat transfer, and reduced permeability.
Steel Blue is recognized for its innovative design and commitment to improving comfort, durability, and safety. The integration of graphene to further boost these features aligns with this philosophy. The development utilized First Graphene's PureGRAPH® 10 graphene powder, suitable for high-volume production with its uniform nanoplatelet size, ensuring even dispersion in TPU masterbatches.
The developed prototype boots feature PureGRAPH®-infused TPU soles and polyurethane foam innersoles. These boots will now undergo extensive laboratory testing followed by field trials. First Graphene Managing Director Craig McGuckin stated, "The development work with Steel Blue provides yet another example of how we are working with customers to commercialise the development of graphene to transform the properties of materials used in many different applications."