Directa Plus was established in 2005 in Italy to develop innovative nanomaterial production processes. The company developed its own exfoliation process (which they call G+) that can be used to produce super-expanded graphite, pristine GNPs, water-dispersed GNPs and fine nanographite powder (all of them marketed under the G+ brand).
In 2014, the company inaugurated its 30-ton graphene plant in Lomazzo, Como. In April 2015 Directa Plus received a grant of €5.5 million. The company is involved with several projects and is providing its materials for textile makers, 3D printing, bicycle wheels and environmental applications.
Directa Plus is a public company that trades in the UK AIM (DCTA:L).
The latest Directa Plus graphene news:
Vittoria to launch new range of graphene-enhanced bicycle tires
Italian bicycle tire manufacturer Vittoria Industries recently announced that it is launching a new range of products employing a second generation of its graphene-filler technology. The graphene supplier is assumed to be Perpetuus Carbon, as the two companies signed a long-term supply agreement for graphene materials.
It was said that while the first-generation generally enhanced the performance of tires, the new 2.0 graphene is functionalized to improve specific tire performances, targeting metrics like speed, wet grip, durability and puncture resistance.
Directa Plus secures patent for graphene-enhanced golf balls
Directa Plus has recently been awarded a patent in Italy to make golf balls using its G+ graphene enhancement. G+ compounds in golf balls can reportedly make professionals hit them even further while less skilled players will enjoy improved swing and shot control.
"Using our G+ product in golf balls, for both the amateur and professional game is an exciting opportunity to enter a large sporting market," said Giulio Cesareo, the firm's chief executive.
Directa Plus extends graphene-enhanced clothing partnership with Alfredo Grassi
Directa Plus and clothing group Alfredo Grassi have extended their exclusive relationship to develop graphene-enhanced clothing for up to a further three years. The two companies will focus on the use of graphene to enhance military outerwear as well as work-wear for organizations like the Italian police and fire services.
Directa Plus and Grassi have already been working together for three years and reportedly produced more than 80,000 meters of fabric enhanced with graphene.
Directa Plus doubles revenues in 2018
Directa Plus has reported that it more than doubled annual revenues, as its various commercial partnerships started to generate orders. Total income in 2018 reportedly rose to €2.5 Million (compared to last year's €1.23 Million) with sales of €2.25 Million (compared to last year's €1 Million) if grants are excluded.
Directa has projects ongoing to incorporate graphene into textiles, pollution treatments and road surfaces.
Directa Plus to provide graphene for textile enhancement project with Loro Piana
It was recently announced that graphene technology developed by Directa Plus will be used to "enrich" textiles made by Italian high-end clothing and fabric maker Loro Piana.
The deal, which is for an initial duration of three years for a minimum value of €0.8 Million, will see Directa's G+ graphene technology incorporated into some of Loro Piana's fabrics and garments.