Chemistry and physics of a single atomic layer: strategies and challenges for functionalization of graphene and graphene-based materials

Abstract

Graphene has attracted great interest for its superior physical, chemical, mechanical, and electrical properties that enable a wide range of applications from electronics to nanoelectromechanical systems. Functionalization is among the significant vectors that drive graphene towards technological applications. While the physical properties of graphene have been at the center of attention, we still lack the knowledge framework for targeted graphene functionalization. In this critical review, we describe some of the important chemical and physical processes for graphene functionalization. We also identify six major challenges in graphene research and give perspectives and practical strategies for both fundamental studies and applications of graphene (315 references).

Janus graphene from asymmetric two-dimensional chemistry

“…For graphene, the extremely high carrier mobility, mechanical flexibility, optical transparency and versatility for band structure engineering make it a promising candidate for post-silicon electronics [6][7][8] . Although the physical properties of graphene have been at the centre of attention, graphene chemistry-the functionalisation of graphene as a 2D giant molecule-offers a new direction to tailor its optical, electronic and surface properties, through the introduction of variable chemical decorations [9][10][11] . Physisorption of chemical species on graphene would provide a facile way to alter its electronic properties 12 , however, covalent chemical modification shows a great advantage in achieving permanent stabilisation for long-term usage 13 .…”

Hydrophilic immobilized trypsin reactor with magnetic graphene oxide as support for high efficient proteome digestion

“…Since the discovery in 2004, graphene has attracted wide attention due to its unique structural and physical properties [25]. Its one-atom thickness and two-dimensional plane structure provide it a large surface area for the immobilization of great amount of substances [26][27][28].…”

Modulating the spin transport behaviors in ZBNCNRs by edge hydrogenation and position of BN chain

“…A number of approaches have been suggested to tailor the electronic structure of graphene to introduce an appreciable band gap, which has been reviewed recently. [11][12][13][14][15] Owing to the unique physical properties and potential applications in nanoscale devices, many other 2D atomically thick materials, such as graphdiyne sheet, 16 silicene, 17,18 phosphorus 19,20 and layered transition-metal dichalcogenides 21,22 have attracted intensive attentions. The mono-layer boron nitride (BN) sheets known as hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) have been fabricated in experiments 23,24 in 2009.…”