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CarCareTruth

Graphene

  • Graphene
  • CAS 7782-42-5
  • IUPAC: graphene

Graphene (CAS 7782-42-5) appears in 2 of the 2,122 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of August 2026).

Low acute toxicity at consumer-product concentrations. Primary health concern in occupational settings is inhalation of dry graphene nanoplatelets (NIOSH). In liquid-suspended consumer coatings at <1%, respirable nanoparticle generation during wipe-on application is negligible.

Graphene (CAS 7782-42-5) is a single-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. In consumer car care products marketed as "graphene coatings," it typically appears at trace concentrations (under 1% by weight), suspended in a solvent carrier (cyclosiloxane, IPA, or petroleum distillate base).

Performance claims vs. evidence: Manufacturers claim graphene at trace concentrations enhances thermal conductivity (reducing water-spot formation), improves anti-static properties, and increases hardness. Independent community testing on the anti-static and water-spot claims is mixed at the spray-format tier. Whether <1% graphene delivers measurable advantages over a comparable siloxane/SiO₂ formulation without graphene has not been confirmed by controlled independent testing.

Health — inhalation note: NIOSH has identified inhalation of dry graphene nanoplatelets as a potential respiratory concern. Consumer coatings use graphene in liquid suspension — not dry powder. Wipe-on application does not produce respirable nanoparticle concentrations. The inhalation concern applies to occupational handling of dry graphene powders, not consumer spray-coating application.

Distinguish from graphene oxide (CAS 1034343-98-0): Graphene oxide is a chemically functionalized derivative with oxygen groups added to the graphene lattice. Many products labeled "graphene" actually contain graphene oxide — check the SDS §3 CAS number. CAS 7782-42-5 is raw graphene; CAS 1034343-98-0 is graphene oxide.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
no
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
yes
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: Carbon allotrope additive used in graphene-branded spray coatings and spray sealants at trace concentrations (<1%)

Common questions about Graphene

What is Graphene used for in car care?
Carbon allotrope additive used in graphene-branded spray coatings and spray sealants at trace concentrations (<1%)
Is Graphene a VOC?
No. Graphene is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Graphene on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Graphene is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

2 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.