Which grade should we choose?

It depends on the application and the product form. The standard choices are 20 nm for water-based cosmetics, 10 nm where a clear formula is needed, 10 or 20 nm for fiber blends, and 50 nm for bedding fill and nonwovens. After an NDA is signed, we work with you to optimize the grade for your formulation.

Can we change grades later?

After a product is qualified under the Inside program, a major change triggers requalification. This covers a change in loading of 20% or more, or a change of grade. Requalification starts right away, separately from the annual renewal cycle.

Can you make particle sizes other than the three grades?

Technically, yes (for example 30 nm or 40 nm). For stable mass production, however, custom sizes have a different minimum order quantity and development time from the standard grades. Please contact us through Apply for Inside.

Can you help with formulation design?

Yes. We can advise on choosing a particle size, loading and other design points for your product. Please contact us through Apply for Inside.

04 · Properties2026

Change the size,

change the properties.

10, 20, 50 nm — by the numbers.

GranovaQ® GQD comes in three particle-size grades: 10, 20 and 50 nm. The quantum size effect and physical properties change with particle size, so you can choose the right grade for cosmetics, textiles or nonwovens. This page lists the detailed specs of each grade and our recommended grades by industry.

Apply for Inside Physical process →

Visualization of GQD nanostructure — 10 nm · 20 nm · 50 nm — particle size decides the role

01 / Spec comparison

Three grades, side by side.

Particle size, crystallinity, dispersibility, transparency and formulation form: the three grades compared on six points. Choose the grade with the right balance for your application.

Spec	Unit	10 nm	20 nm	50 nm
Particle size	nm	10 ± 2	20 ± 3	50 ± 5
Crystallinity	—	High (strongest quantum size effect)	High	High
Dispersibility (water-based)	—	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Dispersibility (oil-based)	—	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Transparency	—	Excellent	Good	Fair
Recommended form	—	Water-based, emulsions	Melt-blended, water-based	Melt-blended fibers, nonwovens

Lineup

Three GranovaQ lines.

This page covers the three particle-size grades of graphene quantum dots (GQD). The GranovaQ brand also includes graphene (for wear and textiles) and a new line, graphene quantum dots plus (GQD+), a new high-purity, high-stability structure now under research for further applications.

For an overview of all three lines, see our story.

02 / Each grade in detail

Three sizes, three roles.

Smallest, sharpest.

10 nm

Our smallest grade. It shows the strongest quantum size effect and combines high transparency with good dispersibility. Suited to water-based cosmetic formulations and light-colored fibers.

Example uses: Scalp essences · Lotions · Serums · Light-colored fibers
Loading: 0.05 – 0.5 %
Main industries: Cosmetics / Apparel (light colors)

Standard for skincare.

20 nm

Our standard grade, with the best balance of stability and performance in both cosmetic formulations and fiber blends. It is the core particle size of the GranovaQ Inside program.

Example uses: Shampoos · Body washes · Fiber blends (innerwear) · Recovery wear (notified in Japan as a general medical device)
Loading: 0.1 – 2.0 %
Main industries: Cosmetics / Apparel / Bedding

Heavy duty.

50 nm

Our largest grade. Well suited to blending into fibers and nonwovens for products meant for long-term use, such as commercial textiles, bedding fill and nonwovens.

Example uses: Bedding fill · Commercial textiles · Nonwovens · Linens used in care settings
Loading: 1.0 – 3.0 %
Main industries: Bedding / Care settings / OEM

03 / Recommended grades by industry

The right grade for each industry.

Industry	Recommended grade	Alternative	Form
Cosmetics	20 nm	10 nm (clear formulas)	Water-based, emulsions
Apparel	10 / 20 nm	—	Melt-blended, mixed in at spinning
Bedding & home	20 / 50 nm	—	Blended into fibers (fill and ticking)
Sports	10 / 20 nm	—	Blended into fibers
Healthcare & elder care textiles	20 / 50 nm	—	Blended into fibers, nonwovens
OEM & private label	By application	All grades	Blended or formulated

04 / FAQ

Common questions about GQD properties.

Q. Which grade should we choose?: A. It depends on the application and the product form. The standard choices are 20 nm for water-based cosmetics, 10 nm where a clear formula is needed, 10 or 20 nm for fiber blends, and 50 nm for bedding fill and nonwovens. After an NDA is signed, we work with you to optimize the grade for your formulation.
Q. Can we change grades later?: A. After a product is qualified under the Inside program, a major change triggers requalification. This covers a change in loading of 20% or more, or a change of grade. Requalification starts right away, separately from the annual renewal cycle.
Q. Can you make particle sizes other than the three grades?: A. Technically, yes (for example 30 nm or 40 nm). For stable mass production, however, custom sizes have a different minimum order quantity and development time from the standard grades. Please contact us through Apply for Inside.
Q. Can you help with formulation design?: A. Yes. We can advise on choosing a particle size, loading and other design points for your product. Please contact us through Apply for Inside.

— Next

Next, see howit's made.

How the three grades are made: a purely physical process with no chemical additives.

Physical process Apply for Inside →