First Graphene signs exclusive supply agreement with Steel Blue

First Graphene Ltd, the leading global producer of advanced graphene products, has signed an exclusive supply agreement with Steel Blue, a major global manufacturer of work boots. Under the supply agreement, Steel Blue will exclusively source graphene and any other graphite or graphene products from First Graphene over a 2-year term.

First Graphene recently partnered with Steel Blue to develop an effective manufacturing process, with graphene being incorporated successfully into thermoplastic polyurethane masterbatches, used for the production of the soles and other components of safety boots. This work was followed by wear trials and independent product testing by Viclab Pty Ltd, one of Australia’s leading NATA accredited testing facilities. The results showed an increase in abrasion and tensile strength, potentially leading to extended product life, plus enhanced heat transfer and reduction in weight.

First Graphene’s Managing Director, Craig McGuckin, explains that, “The new supply agreement highlights the confidence that Steel Blue has in our PureGRAPH^® materials and in our ability to deliver large volumes of graphene over an extended period. PureGRAPH^® has the ability to help our customers throughout industry transform the characteristics of existing products and materials. For example, PureGRAPH^® additives are a key enabler in taking elastomers, composites, coatings and concrete to new levels of performance and we’re actively working with customers in these sectors. As a result, we anticipate that the supply agreement with Steel Blue will be the first in a growing number to be signed during 2020.”

Chief Executive Officer, at Steel Blue, Garry Johnson, commented, “Steel Blue is committed to developing innovative solutions for our customers. We’re excited by the innovations we have developed with First Graphene. We look forward to bringing exciting new safety technologies to the global work boot market.”