First Graphene Limited announced the release of a peer reviewed paper on findings from a study undertaken by the University of Wollongong and an Australian domestic water, sewerage and drainage statutory authority investigating the use of pristine graphene to enhance durability of concrete and mortar in corrosive water environments. The latest paper, which was co-authored by the Company, reports that based on the mix formulation for wastewater infrastructure, results showed that adding graphene to both concrete and mortar enhanced 28-day compressive strength by 10 - 20%. The best admixture level was found to be 0.02 - 0.1% of PureGRAPH® 50.

The product also showed a reduction of the apparent volume of permeable voids (AVPV) of mortar by 11.7% and concrete by 19.3% at the optimal dosages. This was reported to most likely be due to a reduction in the number or size of pores in the paste. Graphene enhanced concrete and mortar with 0.2% and 0.15% dosage rates showed significant sulphate resistance, by reducing 62% and 60% of extension respectively, after exposure to a sulphate solution for 16 weeks.

The release of the paper concludes the research phase and provides the company with validated scientific evidence the benefits PureGRAPH® can deliver in wastewater concrete pipe applications in terms of greater durability and greater resistance to corrosion. The Company is now aiming to leverage the findings to seek commercial opportunities in the wastewater and similar environments. The combined water and wastewater pipe market is projected to be worth USD 46.457 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2022 - 2030.

The market was valued at USD 30.05 billion in 2021. The results add further strength to ongoing research, development and commercialisation opportunities in the cement and concrete segment for First Graphene. Commercial-scale trials continue with global construction chemical manufacturers including Fosroc International, and leading cement companies such as Breedon Cement.

The ability of PureGRAPH® to increase the strength and durability of concrete enables a reduction in the clinker required during the cement manufacturing stage, thus reducing CO2 emissions by up to 18%.