Graphene oxide ‘paper’ changes with strain

Rice researchers say material is more or less brittle, depending on how hard it’s pulled.

This video shows computer models of graphene oxide paper under strain. At top, under more pressure, the material remains brittle as one layer of graphene oxide is pulled away. Under less strain, the layers separate more easily as oxygen molecules on the surfaces stick and slip against each other. (Credit: Ajayan Research Group/Douglas Galvão)