Graphene composite-based planes could be a step closer to reality as a result of a partnership between The University of Manchester and a leading Chinese aviation company.

Beijing Institute of Aeronautical Materials（BIAM）has become the latest partner of the National Graphene Institute (NGI), based at the University, to promote the research and development in graphene reinforced aluminium matrix composites areas, and accelerate the application of graphene in the aviation industry and other sectors.

The NGI has around 50 industrial partners working collaboratively on a range of potential applications. The Institute has a number of collaborations with Chinese companies, and in October hosted President Xi Jinping as part of his state visit to the UK.

For this project, BIAM and the University, under the leadership of Professor Robert Young, will exchange expertise and cooperate on the structural characterisation and property testing of graphene reinforced aluminium matrix nanocomposites.

The projects could result in lighter, stronger and conductive parts for aeroplanes, high speed trains and other industrial equipment to replace traditional materials. With graphene added, the strength of aluminium alloy could be highly improved while retaining its ductile quality.

The collaboration could improve the technology maturity and accelerate the updating of aeroplane structural materials and functional materials.