​This is an Irish Geological Association Lecture presented by George Reynolds (Metric Consulting).

Abstract: "Graphite has been known from antiquity as a material for marking and  writing. Although graphite has always been thought of as a low-value product it is a vital element in nuclear technology, electrical components and steel-making. Graphite's nano-thin relative, graphene, is making its own mark in a range of high-tech and 'green' technologies, such as solar cells and computer touch screens. Graphite itself is an essential part of the rechargeable batteries needed by mobile phones and laptops and, crucially, the batteries needed for electric and hybrid vehicles. The European Union has recently declared graphite a critical material. Commercial deposits are rare, but exploration methods are very effective. Ireland itself has some graphite-bearing rocks ... and perhaps the GSI's Tellus survey will discover more!"