The Graphene-Info newsletter (January 17, 2023)

Researchers from QingDao University of Science and Technology have created a proof-of-concept optical tractor beam that can pull macroscopic objects via laser light. 

In the study, the research team essentially amplified the force with which light can pull objects. They accomplished this by developing a composite structure made of graphene-silicon dioxide that, when irradiated with a laser, creates a reverse temperature difference—in other words, the side facing away from the laser warms up. This causes the gas molecules on their back side to receive more energy, pushing the object toward the laser’s source. When conducted in a rarified gas environment, the force was strong enough to move macroscopic objects.

In November 2022, Applied Graphene Materials (AGM) announced that it aimed to raise money to fund its operations, but was unable to do so. A month later, AGM said it received non-binding indicative proposals for its sale or the sale of its main operating subsidiary. Now, AGM updated on its continuing discussions with various parties that had submitted non-binding indicative proposals for either the sale of its trade and assets, or of shares in its main operating subsidiary.

The AIM-traded company initially sought non-binding indicative proposals from interested parties with a view to completing a transaction by the end of January. It later said that completing a transaction on a solvent basis would likely require shareholder approval at a general meeting, as well as other regulatory approvals.

Talga Group has announced it has opened its new Battery Center of Excellence in Cambridge, UK. The center is a significant expansion of Talga’s UK R&D facilities, first launched in 2016.

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Focusing on battery material innovations, development and characterization, the center is designed to complement Talga’s existing facilities in Sweden (Talnode®-C EV qualification production and battery
quality control labs) and Germany (processing technology scale-up and graphene production).