Holey graphene: a unique structural derivative of graphene

ABSTRACT

Holey graphene (hG), also called graphene nanomesh, is a structural derivative of graphene. hG is formed by removing a large number of atoms from the graphitic plane to produce holes distributed on and through the atomic thickness of the graphene sheets. These holes, sometimes with abundant functional groups around their edges, impart properties that are uncommon to intact graphene but advantageous toward various applications. In this review, strategies to prepare hG and the related applications that take advantage of the unique structural motif of these materials are discussed. Prospects are then given for this emerging class of graphene derivatives.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

IMPACT STATEMENT

Holey graphene is a novel class of graphene derivative that has in-plane porosity. It outperforms intact graphene in many applications such as nanoelectronics, sensors, energy storage, and membranes.

KEYWORDS:

• Holey graphene
• graphene nanomeshes
• porous graphene
• synthesis and applications
• energy storage

Acknowledgements

Y.L. and J.W.C. also thank Prof. Liangbing Hu (University of Maryland, College Park) and Prof. Liming Dai (Case Western Reserve University) for fruitful collaborations.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

Y.L. and J.W.C. acknowledge the support by the Internal Research and Development (IRAD) program from NASA Langley Research Center. Z.C. acknowledges the support by NSF [grant number EPS-1002410] and U.S. Department of Defense [grant number W911NF-15-1-0650].