OCSiAl reports that replacing conventional conductive fillers with graphene nanotubes can reduce CO₂ emissions in conductive materials by up to 26 per cent, addressing a key sustainability challenge in material manufacturing.

Conductive polymers, widely used across electronics, automotive, healthcare, and industrial applications, typically generate significantly higher emissions than non-conductive materials. This is due to high loading requirements of traditional additives such as carbon black and multi-walled carbon nanotubes, along with energy-intensive processing and logistics.

Graphene nanotubes require only minimal dosage—often a fraction of a per cent—enabling more efficient material use and lower overall emissions. Depending on the application and polymer system, emission reductions can range from at least 5 per cent to as high as 26 per cent.

The findings are based on a Life Cycle Assessment conducted in line with ISO 14040/14044 standards, covering raw materials, transportation, processing, and waste across multiple sectors including construction, automotive, and energy.

The development reflects a broader shift towards advanced materials that combine performance with measurable decarbonisation impact, as industries move from sustainability commitments to implementation.