REBCO vs. Graphene for Energy Systems
Electrical Resistance
- REBCO: Zero resistance when cooled below -196°C (liquid nitrogen).
- Graphene: Extremely low resistance (~10⁻⁶ Ω·cm), but not zero.
Current Carrying Capacity
- REBCO: Can carry 100x more current than copper without energy loss.
- Graphene: High conductivity but limited by heat dissipation.
Operating Temperature
- REBCO: Requires cryogenic cooling (liquid nitrogen or lower).
- Graphene: Works at room temperature.
Magnetic Field Resistance
- REBCO: Maintains superconductivity even in high magnetic fields.
- Graphene: Can be affected by strong magnetic fields.
Flexibility & Strength
- REBCO: Flexible as a tape but requires mechanical support.
- Graphene: Extremely flexible and 200x stronger than steel.
Energy Storage Ability
- REBCO: Does not store energy; only transmits it without loss.
- Graphene: Can store massive amounts of energy in supercapacitors and batteries.
Efficiency
- REBCO: 100% efficient (no resistance in superconducting state).
- Graphene: ~98% efficient (minimal resistance but some loss).
Power Transmission vs. Storage
- REBCO: Best for lossless power grids, superconducting motors, and generators.
- Graphene: Best for battery electrodes, supercapacitors, and fast charging.
Heat Dissipation
- REBCO: No heat loss when superconducting.
- Graphene: Low heat loss but some resistance remains.
Cost & Practicality
- REBCO: Expensive due to cryogenic cooling and material production.
- Graphene: Still costly but more scalable for commercial use.
Which is Better for Your System?
- Use REBCO for lossless power transfer in generators, motors, and superconducting cables.
- Use Graphene for batteries, supercapacitors, and quick energy discharge.
By combining both, your system could be near-lossless and highly efficient.