Breakthrough method produces flexible diamond films

By Nina Notman2025-02-21T06:14:00

Source: © Sergey Lifanov/Getty Images

New method shows promise for mass producing ultrathin diamond films for use in the electronic industry

Diamond, known for its hardness and brittleness, can be surprisingly flexible when grown in thin films. However, removing these thin films from their growth surfaces has previously been a challenge. Scientists have now adapted the sticky tape method used to isolate graphene to create ultrathin, flexible diamond films. These films, less than one micrometre thick, have potential applications as heat sinks in electronics. Use this story and the downloadable summary slide for 14–16 lessons on diamonds and other carbon allotropes.

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