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Biofilms are the result of bacterial activity. When the number of bacteria (attached to materials' surfaces) reaches a certain threshold value, then the bacteria simultaneously excrete organic polymers (EPS: extracellular polymeric substances). These sticky polymers encase and protect the bacteria. They are called biofilms and contain about 80% water. Other components of biofilm include polymeric carbon compounds such as polysaccharides and bacteria. It is well-known that biofilms cause various medical and hygiene problems. Therefore, it is important to have a sensor that can detect biofilms to solve such problems. Graphene is a single-atom-thick sheet in which carbon atoms are connected in a hexagonal shape like a honeycomb. Carbon compounds generally bond easily to graphene. Therefore, it is highly possible that graphene could serve as a sensor to monitor biofilm formation and growth. In our previous study, monolayer graphene was prepared on a glass substrate by the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Its biofilm forming ability was compared with that of graphite. As a result, the CVD graphene film had the higher sensitivity for biofilm formation. However, the monolayer graphene has a mechanical disadvantage when used as a biofilm sensor. Therefore, for this new research project, we prepared bilayer graphene with high mechanical strength by using the CVD process on copper substrates. For these specimens, we measured the capacitance component of the specimens' impedance. In addition, we have included a discussion about the possibility of applying them as future sensors for monitoring biofilm formation and growth.

Palladium nanoparticles encapsulated into graphite (Pd–graphite intercalation compound: Pd–GIC) were produced from two kinds of graphite, natural graphite (average flake size: 270 μm) and kish graphite (average flake size: 15 μm). Hydrogen storage properties of Pd–GIC have been investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) between 473 and 573 K at 1.0 MPa hydrogen pressure. It is found from the DSC measurement that Pd–GIC can absorb and emit hydrogen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]