Researchers at the University of Belgrade have created a graphene-based microphone that is 32 times more acoustically sensitive than the standard one you use for your Doctor Who commentary podcast.
The team’s results, published in the science journal 2D Materials, show up to 15 dB higher sensitivity compared to a commercial microphone, at frequencies up to 11 kHz. The team grew a graphene membrane 60 layers thick, then replaced the diaphragm in a commercial microphone with the new membrane, using the same housing to get an accurate comparison of the dynamic range between the two, and then repeated the process with a 300-layer thick membrane, which where the ultrasonic frequencies started to come through.
“Given its light weight, high mechanical strength and flexibility, graphene just begs to be used as an acoustic membrane material.”
Read more: IOP Publishing