HydroGraph Clean Power has announced new testing results demonstrating the performance benefits of its Fractal Graphene™ (FGA-1) as an additive in polyurethane (PU) coatings. Conducted at the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) in Manchester, England, the study validates how HydroGraph’s graphene improves mechanical durability, UV resistance, and anti-corrosion properties – key factors in extending the lifespan of protective coatings used in harsh environments.
“By incorporating our Fractal Graphene™ into commercial coatings, we are enabling a step-change in performance,” said Kjirstin Breure, CEO, HydroGraph. “These results confirm that even at ultra-low dosages, our graphene improves coatings’ durability, reducing maintenance needs and offering a compelling value proposition for industries requiring long-lasting protection.”
HydroGraph’s graphene was tested in commercial polyurethane topcoats – with graphene loading levels of 0% (control), 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.5%. The coatings were evaluated across key performance metrics:
- Abrasion Resistance – Graphene-enhanced coatings outperformed control samples, with the Sigmadur 550 system (0.5% graphene) surviving 1,000 abrasion cycles without failure.
- Scratch Resistance – 0.5% graphene loading improved scratch resistance by 13% in the Sigmadur system.
- Corrosion Resistance – Graphene-modified coatings showed reduced micro-blistering, improving long-term protection in corrosive environments.
- UV Stability – FGA-1 at 0.1% loading retained 77% of its gloss after 1,000 hours of UVA exposure, compared to 59% for control samples.
These findings highlight HydroGraph’s ability to simultaneously enhance multiple protective properties of polyurethane coatings, offering a solution to key industry challenges without compromising environmental compliance.
“The results from this collaboration with HydroGraph are very promising,” said James Baker, CEO of Graphene@Manchester. “They demonstrate how the GEIC continues to support the commercialization of advanced materials like graphene through real-world industrial applications. Improving the performance of protective coatings is just one of many ways graphene can deliver meaningful, sustainable impact across key sectors.”
