Researchers develop concept graphene microphone

The researchers, based at the University of Belgrade created a vibrating membrane – the part of a condenser microphone that converts the sound to a current – from graphene, and were reportedly able to show up to 15dB higher sensitivity compared to a commercial microphone at frequencies up to 11kHz.

The results are published in 2D Materials.

“We wanted to show that graphene, although a relatively new material, has potential for real world applications” said Marko Spasenovic, an author of the paper. “Given its light weight, high mechanical strength and flexibility, graphene just begs to be used as an acoustic membrane material.”

The graphene membrane was grown on a nickel foil using chemical vapour deposition to ensure consistent quality across all the samples.

During membrane production, the nickel foil was etched away and the graphene membrane placed in the same housing as a commercial microphone for comparison. This showed a 15dB higher sensitivity than the commercial microphone.