[2026] PTE Academic Reading - Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers

Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice.First isolated in 2004 by researchers at the University of Manchester, it is considered the first truly two-dimensional material.Its unique structure gives it extraordinary properties, such as being approximately 200 times stronger than steel despite its minimal thickness.In addition to its strength, graphene is an exceptional conductor of both heat and electricity, outperforming traditional materials like copper.Because it is nearly transparent and highly flexible, it has the potential to revolutionize the design of foldable electronics and touchscreens.Furthermore, its high surface-to-volume ratio makes it an ideal candidate for applications in water filtration and high-capacity batteries.However, the mass production of high-quality graphene remains a significant challenge due to the high costs associated with large-scale synthesis.Early methods, like the 'Scotch tape' technique, were effective for research but inefficient for commercial manufacturing.Current research is focused on chemical vapor deposition and other techniques to produce graphene more affordably for industrial use.As production methods improve, graphene is expected to play a major role in the development of next-generation composites and aerospace components.