Graphyne and Its Family: Recent Theoretical Advances

Unveiling the potential of a BCN-biphenylene monolayer as a high-performance anode material for alkali metal ion batteries: a first-principles study

Inspired by a freshly synthesized two-dimensional biphenylene carbon network, which features a captivating combination of hexagonal, square, and octagonal rings, we explored a similar biphenylene network composed of boron, carbon, and nitrogen (bpn-BCN) using first-principles calculations. There are six possible phases of borocarbonitrides, which are isoelectronic to biphenylene carbon networks with a stoichiometric ratio of 1 : 1 : 1 for boron (B), carbon (C), and nitrogen (N) atoms. All possible isoelectronic structures of the BCN combination of biphenylene networks are found to be stable, according to first-principles calculations. However, the geometry has a relatively large number of robust C-C and B-N bonds and strong partially ionic-covalent B-C and C-N bonds inside these bpn-BCN monolayers are effectively more stable. Furthermore, we employed first-principles calculations to investigate the electrochemical properties of the most stable geometry of BCN biphenylene as a potential anode material for alkali metal (AM) ion batteries. A global search has been made to find the most favourable alkali metal ion adsorption sites. The biphenylene monolayer has octagonal, square, and hexagonal motifs with different adsorption strengths. Furthermore, the partially ionic bond of B-N (due to the electronegativity difference) also supports the alkali metal ions for adsorption. The electronic properties of the stable phase of bpn-BCN reveal its narrow bandgap semiconductor nature. The ion diffusion calculations show a low activation barrier for Li, Na, and K of 0.65 eV, 0.26 eV, and 0.23 eV, respectively, indicating a fast charge/discharge rate. Furthermore, the theoretical capacities of the BCN biphenylene monolayer for Li (1057.33 mA h g-1), Na (647.27 mA h g-1), and K (465.98 mA h g-1) are found to be greater than those of commercial graphite. The average open-circuit voltage for AM decreases with increasing metal ion concentrations. It falls within a reasonable range of 0.34-1.89 V. Our results show that the BCN biphenylene monolayer could be a promising anode material in alkali metal ion rechargeable batteries.

Structural identification of single boron-doped graphdiynes by computational XPS and NEXAFS spectroscopy

Boron-doped graphdiyne (B-GDY) material exhibits an excellent performance in electrocatalysis, ion transport, and energy storage. However, accurately identifying the structures of B-GDY in experiments remains a challenge, hindering further selection of suitable structures with the most ideal performance for various practical applications. In the present work, we employed density functional theory (DFT) to simulate the X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) and near-edge X-ray absorption fine-structure (NEXAFS) spectra of pristine graphdiyne (GDY) and six representative single boron-doped graphdiynes at the B and C K-edges to establish the structure-spectroscopy relationship. A notable disparity in the C 1s ionization potentials (IPs) between substituted and adsorbed structures is observed upon doping with a boron atom. By analyzing the C and B 1s NEXAFS spectra on energy positions, spectral widths, spectral intensities, and different spectral profiles, we found that the six single boron-doped graphdiyne configurations can be sensitively identified. Moreover, this study provides a reliable theoretical reference for distinguishing different single boron-doped graphdiyne structures, enabling accurate selection of B-GDY structures for diverse practical applications.

Carbon-based Flame Retardants for Polymers: A Bottom-up Review

This state-of-the-art review is geared toward elucidating the molecular understanding of the carbon-based flame-retardant mechanisms for polymers via holistic characterization combining detailed analytical assessments and computational material science. The use of carbon-based flame retardants, which include graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), carbon dots (CDs), and fullerenes, in their pure and functionalized forms are initially reviewed to evaluate their flame retardancy performance and to determine their elevation of the flammability resistance on various types of polymers. The early transition metal carbides such as MXenes, regarded as next-generation carbon-based flame retardants, are discussed with respect to their superior flame retardancy and multifunctional applications. At the core of this review is the utilization of cutting-edge molecular dynamics (MD) simulations which sets a precedence of an alternative bottom-up approach to fill the knowledge gap through insights into the thermal resisting process of the carbon-based flame retardants, such as the formation of carbonaceous char and intermediate chemical reactions offered by the unique carbon bonding arrangements and microscopic in-situ architectures. Combining MD simulations with detailed experimental assessments and characterization, a more targeted development as well as a systematic material synthesis framework can be realized for the future development of advanced flame-retardant polymers.

Edge Functionalization of Bulk γ-Graphyne Facilitates Mechanical Exfoliation and Modulates the Mode of Sheet Stacking

We have successfully achieved selective and efficient functionalization of sheet edges in microcrystalline multilayer γ-graphyne through two methods: cross-coupling with residual bromide edge groups and copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) with edge terminal alkyne groups. This modification significantly enhances the ease of mechanical exfoliation and dispersibility of the sheets of γ-graphyne. Specifically, C18-grafted γ-graphyne forms stable dispersions in compatible organic solvents, allowing for the imaging of atomically thin layers of γ-graphyne for the first time. Additionally, we have discovered that phenylacetylide edge groups alter the preferred stacking mode of γ-graphyne sheets. Few-layer flakes of Ph-edge γ-graphyne exhibit a preference for the R3m space group, contrasting with the aperiodic stacking of Br-edge γ-graphyne. These results open the door for scalable exfoliation of few-layer flakes of γ-graphyne with a high aspect ratio, enabling potential applications in carbon electronics.

Graphsene as a novel porous two-dimensional carbon material for enhanced oxygen reduction electrocatalysis

Graphene allotropes with varied carbon configurations have attracted significant attention for their unique properties and chemical activities. This study introduces a novel two-dimensional carbon-based material, termed Graphsene (GrS), through theoretical study. Comprising tetra-, penta-, and dodeca-carbon rings, GrS's cohesive energy calculations demonstrate its superior structural stability over existing graphene allotropes, including graphyne and graphdiyne families. Phonon dispersion analysis confirms GrS's dynamic stability and its relatively low thermal conductivity. All calculated GrS elastic constants meet the Born criteria, ensuring mechanical stability. Ab-initio molecular dynamic simulations show GrS maintains its structure at 300 K. HSE06 calculations reveal a narrow electronic bandgap of 20 meV, with the electronic band structure featuring a highly anisotropic Dirac-like cone due to its intrinsic structural anisotropy along armchair and zigzag directions. Notably, GrS is predicted to offer exceptional catalytic performance for the oxygen reduction reaction, favoring the four-electron reduction pathway with high selectivity under both acidic and alkaline conditions. This discovery opens promising avenues for developing metal-free catalyst materials in clean energy production.

Exploring the impact of stress on the electronic structure and optical properties of graphdiyne nanoribbons for advanced optoelectronic applications

Graphdiyne (GDY), a two-dimensional carbon material with sp- and sp2-hybridization, is recognized for its unique electronic properties and well-dispersed porosity. Its versatility has led to its use in a variety of applications. The precise control of this material's properties is paramount for its effective utilization in nano-optical devices. One effective method of regulation, which circumvents the need for additional disturbances, involves the application of external stress. This technique provides a direct means of eliciting changes in the electronic characteristics of the material. For instance, when subjected to uniaxial stress, electron transfer occurs at the triple bond. This results in an armchair-edged graphdiyne nanoribbon (A(3)-GDYNR) with a planar width of 2.07 nm, which exhibits a subtle plasmon effect at 500 nm. Conversely, a zigzag-edged graphdiyne nanoribbon (Z(3)-GDYNR) with a planar width of 2.86 nm demonstrates a pronounced plasmon effect within the 250-1200 nm range. This finding suggests that the zigzag nanoribbon surpasses the armchair nanoribbon in terms of its plasmon effect. First principles calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics further confirmed that under applied stress Z(3)-GDYNR exhibits less deformation than A(3)-GDYNR, indicating superior stability. This work provides the necessary theoretical basis for understanding graphene nanoribbons (GDYNRs).

Exploring the Potential of Chemically Modified Graphyne Nanodots as an Efficient Adsorbent and Sensitive Detector of Environmental Contaminants: A First Principles Study

In this study, we investigated the reactivity of γ-graphyne (Gp) and its derivatives, Gp-CH3, Gp-COOH, Gp-CN, Gp-NO2, and Gp-SOH, for the removal of toxic heavy metal ions (Hg+ 2, Pb+ 2, and Cd+ 2) from wastewater. From the analysis of the optimized structures, it was observed that all the compounds exhibited planar geometry. The dihedral angles (C9-C2-C1-C6 and C9-C2-C1-C6) were approximately 180.00°, indicating planarity in all molecular arrangements. To understand the electronic properties of the compounds, the HOMO (EH) and LUMO (EL) energies were calculated, and their energy gaps (Eg) were determined. The EH and EL values ranged between - 6.502 and - 8.192 eV and - 1.864 and - 3.773 eV, respectively, for all the compounds. Comparing the EH values, Gp-NO2 exhibited the most stable HOMO, while Gp-CH3 had the least stable structure. In terms of EL values, Gp-NO2 had the most stable LUMO, while Gp-CH3 was the least stable. The Eg values followed the order: Gp-NO2 < Gp-COOH < Gp-CN < Gp-SOH < Gp-CH3 < Gp, with Gp-NO2 (4.41 eV) having the smallest energy gap. The density of states (DOS) analysis showed that the shape and functional group modifications affected the energy levels. Functionalization with electron-withdrawing (CN, NO2, COOH, SOH) or electron-donating (CH3) groups reduced the energy gap. To specifically target the removal of heavy metal ions, the Gp-NO2 ligand was selected for its high binding energy. Complexes of Gp-NO2-Cd, Gp-NO2-Hg, and Gp-NO2-Pb were optimized, and their properties were analyzed. The complexes were found to be planar, with metal-ligand bond distances within the range of 2.092→3.442 Å. The Gp-NO2-Pb complex exhibited the shortest bond length, indicating a stronger interaction due to the smaller size of Pb+ 2. The computed adsorption energy values (Eads) indicated the stability of the complexes, with values ranging from - 0.035 to -4.199 eV. Non-covalent interaction (NCI) analysis was employed to investigate intermolecular interactions in Gp-NO2 complexes. The analysis revealed distinct patterns of attractive and repulsive interactions, providing valuable insights into the binding preferences and steric effects of heavy metals.

Using Graphdiyne Nanoribbons for Molecular Electronics Spectroscopy and Nucleobase Identification: A Theoretical Investigation

In pursuit of fast, cost-effective, and reliable DNA sequencing techniques, a variety of two-dimensional (2D) material-based nanodevices such as solid-state nanopores and nanochannels have been explored and established. Given the promising potential of graphene for the design and fabrication of nanobiosensors, other 2D carbon allotropes such as graphyne and graphdiyne have also attracted a great deal of attention as candidate materials for the development of sequencing technology. Herein, employing the 2D electronic molecular spectroscopy (2DMES) method, we investigate the capability of graphdiyne nanoribbons (GDNRs) as the building blocks of a feasible, precise, and ultrafast sequencing device. Using first-principles calculations, we study the adsorption of four canonical nucleobases (NBs), i.e., adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T) on an armchair GDNR (AGDNR). Our calculations reveal that compared to graphene, graphdiyne demonstrates more distinct binding energies for different NBs, indicating its more promising ability to unambiguously recognize DNA bases. Utilizing the 2DMES technique, we calculate the differential conductance (Δg) of the studied NB-AGDNR systems and show that the resulting Δg maps, unique for each NB-AGDNR complex, can be used to recognize each individual NB without ambiguity. We also investigate the conductance sensitivity of the proposed nanobiosensor and show that it exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity toward various NBs. Thus, our proposed graphdiyne-based nanodevice would hold promise for next-generation DNA sequencing technology.

Subtle 2D/2D MXene-Based Heterostructures for High-Performance Electrocatalytic Water Splitting

Developing efficient electrocatalysts is significant for the commercial application of electrocatalytic water splitting. 2D materials have presented great prospects in electrocatalysis for their high surface-to-volume ratio and tunable electronic properties. Particularly, MXene emerges as one of the most promising candidates for electrocatalysts, exhibiting unique advantages of hydrophilicity, outstanding conductivity, and exceptional stability. However, it suffers from lacking catalytic active sites, poor oxidation resistance, and easy stacking, leading to a significant suppression of the catalytic performance. Combining MXene with other 2D materials is an effective way to tackle the aforementioned drawbacks. In this review, the focus is on the accurate synthesis of 2D/2D MXene-based catalysts toward electrocatalytic water splitting. First, the mechanisms of electrocatalytic water splitting and the relative properties and preparation methods of MXenes are introduced to offer the basis for accurate synthesis of 2D/2D MXene-based catalysts. Then, the accurate synthesis methods for various categories of 2D/2D MXene-based catalysts, such as wet-chemical, phase-transformation, electrodeposition, etc., are systematically elaborated. Furthermore, in-depth investigations are conducted into the internal interactions and structure-performance relationship of 2D/2D MXene-based catalysts. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities are proposed for the development of 2D/2D MXene-based catalysts, aiming to enlighten these promising nanomaterials for electrocatalytic water splitting.

Transition in electronic and magnetic properties of transition metal embedded semimetallic B-graphyne

Spintronics is extremely important in the future development of information technology. Notably, two-dimensional carbon materials with atomically thick and p-electron systems have great potential for application in ultrathin spintronic devices. B-graphyne (B-GY) is a recently proposed two-dimensional carbon allotrope with double Dirac cones. It is a promising nanomaterial for high-speed spintronic devices due to its ultra-high Fermi velocity and thermodynamic stability. We tune the electronic and magnetic properties of B-GY by doping 3d transition metals (TM) (Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni) based on first-principles calculations. After doping, TM forms strong covalent bonds (Fe, Co, Ni) and ionic bonds (Cr, Mn) with adjacent C atoms. The system of TM-doped B-GY (TM@B-GY) is transformed from a semimetal for B-GY to a metal (Cr, Mn, Fe, Co), but Ni@B-GY is still semimetal. Among them, Co@B-GY is approximately a half-metal. Moreover, TM (except Ni) can induce the magnetism of B-GY to undergo spin splitting. The TM d-orbitals are strongly coupled to the C p-orbitals, which play an important role in inducing magnetism. The results show that the tunable electronic and magnetic properties of TM@B-GY are promising as a high-speed spintronic device. Our research helps advance the study of semimetallic carbon allotropes in the field of spintronics.

Electrochemical determination of benomyl using MWCNTs interspersed graphdiyne as enhanced electrocatalyst

Graphdiyne (GDY) has attracted a lot of interest in electrochemical sensing application with the advantages of a large conjugation system, porous structure, and high structure defects. Herein, to further improve the sensing effect of GDY, conductive MWCNTs were chosen as the signal accelerator. To get a stable composite material, polydopamine (PDA) was employed as connecting bridge between GDY and MWCNTs-NH₂, where DA was firstly polymerized onto GDY, followed by covalently linking MWCNTs-NH₂ with PDA through Michael-type reaction. The formed GDY@PDA/MWCNTs-NH₂ composite was then explored as an electrochemical sensor for benomyl (Ben) determination. GDY assists the adsorption and accumulation of Ben molecules to the sensing surface, while MWCNTs-NH₂ can enhance the electrical conductivity and electrocatalytic activity, all of which contributing to the significantly improved performance. The proposed sensor displays an obvious oxidation peak at 0.72 V (vs. Hg|Hg₂Cl₂) and reveals a wide linear range from 0.007 to 10.0 µM and a low limit of detection (LOD) of 1.8 nM (S/N = 3) toward Ben detection. In addition, the sensor shows high stability, repeatability, reproducibility, and selectivity. The feasibility of this sensor was demonstrated by detecting Ben in apple and cucumber samples with a recovery of 94-106% and relative standard deviations (RSDs) less than 2.3% (n = 5). A sensitive electrochemical sensing platform was reported for benomyl (Ben) determination based on a highly stable GDY@PDA/MWCNTs-NH₂ composite.

Recent advances on graphyne and its family members as membrane materials for water purification and desalination

Graphyne and its family members (GFMs) are allotropes of carbon (a class of 2D materials) having unique properties in form of structures, pores and atom hybridizations. Owing to their unique properties, GFMs have been widely utilized in various practical and theoretical applications. In the past decade, GFMs have received considerable attention in the area of water purification and desalination, especially in theoretical and computational aspects. More recently, GFMs have shown greater prospects in achieving optimal separation performance than the experimentally derived commercial polyamide membranes. In this review, recent theoretical and computational advances made in the GFMs research as it relates to water purification and desalination are summarized. Brief details on the properties of GFMs and the commonly used computational methods were described. More specifically, we systematically reviewed the various computational approaches employed with emphasis on the predicted permeability and selectivity of the GFM membranes. Finally, the current challenges limiting their large-scale practical applications coupled with the possible research directions for overcoming the challenges are proposed.

Understanding the performance of graphdiyne membrane for the separation of nitrate ions from aqueous solution at the atomistic scale

A molecular dynamics simulation study is conducted to investigate the capability of the pristine graphdiyne nanosheet for nitrate ion separation from water. The removal of nitrate ion contaminants from water is of critical importance as it represents an environmental hazard. The graphdiyne is a carbon-based membrane with pore density of 2.4 × 10¹⁸ pores/m² and incircle radius of 2.8 Å. We show that the efficient water flow is accurately controlled through fine regulation of the exerted hydrostatic pressure. The high water permeability of 6.19 L.Day^-1cm^-2MPa^-1 with 100% nitrate ions rejection suggests that the graphdiyne can perform as a suitable membrane for nitrate separation. The potential of mean force analysis of the single water molecule and nitrate ion indicated the free energy barriers for nitrate of about 4 times higher than that of water molecules. The results reveal the weak interaction of the water molecules and the membrane which aid to high water flux.

Scalable Synthesis and Characterization of Multilayer γ-Graphyne, New Carbon Crystals with a Small Direct Band Gap

γ-Graphyne is the most symmetric sp²/sp¹ allotrope of carbon, which can be viewed as graphene uniformly expanded through the insertion of two-carbon acetylenic units between all the aromatic rings. To date, synthesis of bulk γ-graphyne has remained a challenge. We here report the synthesis of multilayer γ-graphyne through crystallization-assisted irreversible cross-coupling polymerization. A comprehensive characterization of this new carbon phase is described, including synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction, electron diffraction, lateral force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. Experiments indicate that γ-graphyne is a 0.48 eV band gap semiconductor, with a hexagonal a-axis spacing of 6.88 Å and an interlayer spacing of 3.48 Å, which is consistent with theoretical predictions. The observed crystal structure has an aperiodic sheet stacking. The material is thermally stable up to 240 °C but undergoes transformation at higher temperatures. While conventional 2D polymerization and reticular chemistry rely on error correction through reversibility, we demonstrate that a periodic covalent lattice can be synthesized under purely kinetic control. The reported methodology is scalable and inspires extension to other allotropes of the graphyne family.

Design of an aluminium ion battery with a graphyne host: lowest volume expansion, high stability and low diffusion barriers

Commercialization of aluminium ion battery (AIB) requires limited volume expansion of the host cathode materials after AlCl₄ intercalation, lower activation barrier, high theoretical specific capacity (TSC), cyclic durability and thermodynamic stability. Most of the carbon and non-carbon based cathode hosts explored so far failed to address the issue of volume expansion and there is a lack of clarity about thermodynamic stability. In this work, we employed multipronged first principles computational approaches on α- and γ-graphyne (GY) and showed that α-GY as a promising cathode host addresses each of the above concerns. Both α and γ-GYs provide ample space to accommodate more number of AlCl₄ molecules leading to a high TSC of 186 mA h g^-1 and open circuit voltages of 2.18 and 2.22 V, respectively. The absence of bond dissociation of AlCl₄ and deformation of GY sheets at 300 and 600 K, as revealed by ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulation, indicates the stability of α- and γ-GY with adsorbed AlCl₄. α-GY after intercalation shows a volume expansion of 186% which is the lowest among the cathode materials studied so far. The negligible expansion energy per unit surface area (∼0.003 eV Å^-2) ensures the reversibility and hence cyclic durability of α-GY. Although the γ-GY shows a volume expansion of 249%, it is still promising. The NEB based diffusion study on monolayer and bilayer GY estimates the activation barriers to be (0.26, 0.06 eV) and (0.42, 0.16 eV) for α and γ phases, respectively. These values are either comparable to or lower than those of earlier reported cathode hosts.

Catechol sensor based on pristine and transition metal embedded holey graphyne: a first-principles density functional theory study

To develop a highly sensitive and selective biosensor for detecting noxious biomolecules from the environment, we examined catechol (Cc) adsorption in pristine and transition metal (TM = Sc, Cu, and Pd) embedded 2D holey graphyne (hGY) monolayers using the first-principles density functional theory method. The interaction between Cc and the pristine hGY is purely weak, and hence the response of the sensing device will be difficult to detect. Therefore, the TM doping strategy is adopted to improve the sensitivity. According to our findings, Sc binds strongly to the hGY monolayer, with a binding energy of -4.09 eV and a charge transfer of 1.89e from the valence orbitals of Sc to the C 2p orbitals. Later on, the Cc adsorption on the TM-embedded hGY was investigated. The interaction of Cc with the transition metal involves charge transfer from Cc to the metal d orbital. A large binding energy of -3.22 eV and a significant charge transfer of about 0.9e from the O 2p orbitals of Cc to the valence orbital of Sc suggest that the Sc embedded hGY monolayer is a good choice for the efficient sensing of Cc molecules. Furthermore, ab initio MD simulations confirmed the structural stability of the Sc + hGY system at room temperature. We strongly believe that this theoretical work will aid the experimentalists in designing and developing 2D semiconducting nanolayer-based biosensors for commercial purposes.

Influence of Alkali Metal Doping and BN Substitution on the Second-Order Nonlinear Optical Properties of Graphyne: A Theoretical Perspective

The electronic and nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of BN-substituted graphynes and the corresponding alkali-doped hybrid systems have been determined using density functional theory. When the carbon atoms in the graphyne are replaced by BN pairs, the highest occupied molecular orbital-lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) gap (E_gap) increases to some extent, and the static first hyperpolarizabilities (β₀) of the novel systems hardly increase. However, when an alkali atom is introduced on the surface of BN-substituted graphyne, the doping effect can effectively modulate the electronic and NLO properties. Doping the alkali atom can significantly narrow the wide E_gap of BN-substituted graphynes in the range of 1.03-2.03 eV. Furthermore, the doping effect brings considerable β₀ values to these alkali-doped systems, which are 52-3609 au for Li-doped systems and 3258-211 053 au for Na/K-doped ones. The result reveals that the β₀ values of alkali-doped complexes are influenced by the atomic number of alkali metals and the proportion of BN pairs. The nature of the excellent NLO responses of alkali-doped complexes can be understood by the low excitation energy of the crucial excited state and the analysis of the first hyperpolarizability density. Besides, these alkali-doped complexes have a deep-ultraviolet working region. Therefore, the combined effect of alkali metal doping and BN substitution can be an excellent strategy to design novel high-performance NLO materials based on graphyne.

Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of γ-Graphyne Structures under Shearing

In this study, a nonlinear, spring-based finite element approach is employed in order to predict the nonlinear mechanical response of graphyne structures under shear loading. Based on Morse potential functions, suitable nonlinear spring finite elements are formulated simulating the interatomic interactions of different graphyne types. Specifically, the four well-known types of γ-graphyne, i.e., graphyne-1 also known as graphyne, graphyne-2 also known as graphdiyne, graphyne-3, and graphyne-4 rectangular sheets are numerically investigated applying appropriate boundary conditions representing shear load. The obtained finite element analysis results are employed to calculate the in-plane shear stress–strain behaviour, as well as the corresponding mechanical properties as shear modulus and shear strength. Comparisons of the present graphyne shearing response predictions with other corresponding estimations are performed to validate the present research results.

Two-dimensional graphyne-graphene heterostructure for all-carbon transistors

Semiconducting graphyne is a two-dimensional (2D) carbon allotrope with high mobility, which is promising for next generation all-carbon field effect transistors (FETs). In this work, the electronic properties of van der Waals heterostructure consists of 2D graphyne and graphene (GY/G) were studied from first-principles calculations. It is found that the band dispersion of isolated graphene and graphyne remain intact after they were stacked together. Due to the charge transfer from graphene to graphyne, the Fermi level of the GY/G heterostructure crosses the VB of graphene and the CB of graphyne. As a result, n-type Ohmic contact with zero Schottky barrier height (SBH) is obtained in GY/G based FETs. Moreover, the electron tunneling from graphene to graphyne is found to be efficient. Therefore, excellent electron transport properties can be expected in GY/G based FETs. Lastly, it is demonstrated that the SBH in the GY/G heterostructure can be tune by applying a vertical external electric field or doping, and the transition from n-type to p-type contact can be realized. These results show that GY/G is potentially suitable for 2D FETs, and provide insights into the development of all-carbon electronic devices.

Mechanistic studies on the anomalous transport behaviors of water molecules in nanochannels of multilayer graphynes

An in-depth understanding of directed transport behaviors of water molecules through nanoporous materials is essential for the design and development of next-generation filtration devices. In this work, we perform molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to explore transport properties of water molecules through nanochannels of multilayer graphyne with different pore sizes. Our simulation results reveal that the orientations of confined water molecules would periodically reverse between two opposite directions as they diffuse along the nanochannels, and such a transport mechanism shows similarities with water transport in aquaporin channels. Further, we observe that, for each orientation reversal, there is an obvious difference in the HB breaking frequency among the three graphyne systems, with an order of graphyne-4 > graphyne-5 > graphyne-3. Besides, the average HB number is found to display a periodic fluctuation with a pulse-like pattern along the diffusion direction, wherein the graphyne-4 system has the maximum fluctuation, while the graphyne-3 system has the minimum one. Such anomalous HB breaking frequency and average HB number fluctuation results finally lead to a nonmonotonic relationship between water diffusion rate and graphyne pore size, and the diffusion order follows graphyne-4 > graphyne-5 > graphyne-3. Herein, we provide a new insight into the transport mechanisms of water molecules through nanoporous materials and our findings open up opportunities for the design and development of high-performance graphyne-based membranes used for water purification and desalination.

Emergence and Tuning of Multiple Flat Bands in Twisted Bilayer γ-Graphyne

Using twisted bilayer γ-graphyne (TBGY) as an example, we show that it is possible to create multiple flat bands in carbon allotropes without the requirement of a specified magic angle. The origin of the flat bands can be understood by a simple two-level coupling model. The narrow bandwidth and strong localization of the flat band states might lead to strong correlation effects, which make TBGY a good platform for studying correlation physics. On the basis of the two-level coupling model, we further propose that the width and extent of localization of flat bands can be tuned by an energy mismatch ΔE between the two layers of TBGY, which can be realized by either applying a perpendicular electric field or introducing a heterostrain. This allows continuous modulation of TBGY from the strong-correlation regime to the medium- or weak-correlation regime, which could be utilized to study the quantum phase transition.

Novel Two-Dimensional MA2N4 Materials for Photovoltaic and Spintronic Applications

We have systematically investigated a family of newly proposed two-dimensional MA₂N₄ materials (M = Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W; A = Si, Ge) using first-principles calculation. We categorize the potential of these materials into three different applications based on accurate simulation of band gap (using Hybrid HSE06 functional) and the associated descriptors. Three candidate materials (MoGe₂N₄, HfSi₂N₄, and NbSi₂N₄) turn out to be extremely promising for three different applications. MoGe₂N₄ and HfSi₂N₄ monolayers show strong optical absorption in the visible range, including high transition probability from the valence to conduction band. The GW+BSE calculations confirm a strong excitonic effect in both the systems. With a band gap of 1.42 eV, multilayer MoGe₂N₄ shows reasonably large simulated efficiency (∼15.40%) and hence can be explored for possible photovoltaic applications. High optical absorption, suitable band gap/edge positions, and the CO₂ activation make HfSi₂N₄ monolayer a promising candidate for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction. NbSi₂N₄, on the other hand, belongs to a new class of spintronic material called a bipolar magnetic semiconductor, recommended for spin-transport-based applications.

Isotopic separation of helium through graphyne membranes: a ring polymer molecular dynamics study

Microscopic-level understanding of the separation mechanism for two-dimensional (2D) membranes is an active area of research due to potential implications of this class of membranes for various technological processes. Helium (He) purification from the natural resources is of particular interest due to the shortfall in its production. In this work, we applied the ring polymer molecular dynamics (RPMD) method to graphdiyne (Gr2) and graphtriyne (Gr3) 2D membranes having variable pore sizes for the separation of He isotopes, and compare for the first time with rigorous quantum calculations. We found that the transmission rate through Gr3 is many orders of magnitude greater than Gr2. The selectivity of either isotope at low temperatures is a consequence of a delicate balance between the zero-point energy effect and tunneling of ⁴He and ³He. In particular, a remarkable tunneling effect is reported on the Gr2 membrane at 10 K, leading to a much larger permeation of the lighter species as compared to the heavier isotope. RPMD provides an efficient approach for studying the separation of He isotopes, taking into account quantum effects of light nuclei motions at low temperatures, which classical methods fail to capture.

Strain-induced quantum phase transition in the C3Sc4 monolayer: towards multiple gapless fermions

Most two dimensional (2D) topological materials host only one kind of fermionic state. However, realizing multiple gapless fermions in a single 2D material is rarely reported. Furthermore, researchers face challenges in regulating various gapless fermion transitions using specific methods. Herein, we perform a study based on the first-principles calculation to investigate the electronic structures and the related fermionic states of strained 2D C3Sc4. C3Sc4 is an ideal system in the ground state with twelve Dirac points. The dynamical, mechanical, and thermal stabilities of the proposed C3Sc4 monolayer are demonstrated in detail. Interestingly, under the condition of 9.5% biaxial tensile strain, gapless and quadratic Weyl fermionic states are observed at the Γ point. A gapless and massless pseudospin-1 fermion appears at the Γ point in the 2D C3Sc4 system under 13% biaxial tensile strain and with hole doping. The Fermi velocity of this massless pseudospin-1 fermion is 2.1 × 105 m s-1, comparable to that of well-known 2D gapless topological materials. The results indicate that 2D C3Sc4 is an ideal playground to explore interesting behaviors of quantum phase transitions and rich gapless fermionic states and also reveal its potential applications in high-speed nano-devices.

Imidazole-graphyne: a new 2D carbon nitride with a direct bandgap and strong IR refraction

Six-membered rings are common building blocks of many carbon structures. Recent studies have shown that penta-graphene composed of five-membered carbon rings have properties very different from that of graphene. This has motivated the search for new carbon structures. Among this is cp-graphyne, composed of carbon pentagons and bridged by acetylenic linkers. However, the bandgap of cp-graphyne, like that of graphene, is zero, making it unsuitable for applications in electronics. Herein, we show that a new two-dimensional (2D) carbon nitride structure formed by assembling the five-membered imidazole molecules with acetylenic linker can overcome this limitation. Named ID-GY, this new material not only has a direct band gap of 1.10 eV, but it is dynamically and mechanically stable and can withstand temperatures up to 1200 K. In addition, due to its porous and anisotropic geometry, the Young's modulus of ID-GY along the diagonal direction is lower than that of most 2D materials reported previously. Equally important, ID-GY exhibits strong refraction near infrared (IR) and has potential for applications in nanoelectronics and optical devices. These results, based on density functional theory, can stimulate experimental studies.

Advances on Graphyne-Family Members for Superior Photocatalytic Behavior

Graphyne (GY) and graphdiyne (GDY) have been employed in photocatalysis since 2012, presenting intriguing electronic and optical properties, such as high electron mobility and intrinsic bandgap due to their high π-conjugated structures. Authors are reporting the enhanced photocatalytic efficiency of these carbon allotropes when combined with different metal oxides or other carbon materials. However, the synthesis of graphyne-family members (GFMs) is still very recent, and not much is known about the true potential of these photocatalytic materials. In this review article, the implications of different synthesis routes on the structural features and photocatalytic properties of these materials are elucidated. The application of GFMs in the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) regeneration, hydrogen and oxygen evolution, and carbon dioxide reduction is discussed, as well as in the degradation of pollutants and bacteria inactivation in water and wastewater treatment.

Advances in Drug Delivery Nanosystems Using Graphene-Based Materials and Carbon Nanotubes

Carbon is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. In addition to the well-known crystallographic modifications such as graphite and diamond, other allotropic carbon modifications such as graphene-based nanomaterials and carbon nanotubes have recently come to the fore. These carbon nanomaterials can be designed to help deliver or target drugs more efficiently and to innovate therapeutic approaches, especially for cancer treatment, but also for the development of new diagnostic agents for malignancies and are expected to help combine molecular imaging for diagnosis with therapies. This paper summarizes the latest designed drug delivery nanosystems based on graphene, graphene quantum dots, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes, mainly for anticancer therapy.

A phase-dependent photoluminescent discotic liquid crystal bearing a graphdiyne substructure

In recent years, graphdiyne and its derivatives with fascinating electro-optic properties have attracted tremendous scientific attention. Here we design and synthesize a graphdiyne-derived discotic liquid crystal material by decorating six wedge-shaped 3,4,5-tris(dodecyloxy)benzoate groups on the fundamental structural unit of graphdiyne, the dehydrotribenzo[18]annulene core. This graphdiyne-derived liquid crystal material exhibits a cubic phase and a hexagonal columnar phase at varied temperatures. Most interestingly, this molecule displays a tunable phase-dependent photoluminescence behavior. Under the irradiation of 365 nm wavelength ultraviolet light, the luminescent material emits pale blue, green and azure light in the cubic, hexagonal columnar and isotropic phases respectively. This graphdiyne-derived discotic liquid crystal with excellent optical characteristics might have application potentials in organic optoelectronic functional materials and devices.

Helium Isotopes Quantum Sieving through Graphtriyne Membranes

We report accurate quantum calculations of the sieving of Helium atoms by two-dimensional (2D) graphtriyne layers with a new interaction potential. Thermal rate constants and permeances in an ample temperature range are computed and compared for both Helium isotopes. With a pore larger than graphdiyne, the most common member of the γ-graphyne family, it could be expected that the appearance of quantum effects were more limited. We find, however, a strong quantum behavior that can be attributed to the presence of selective adsorption resonances, with a pronounced effect in the low temperature regime. This effect leads to the appearance of some selectivity at very low temperatures and the possibility for the heavier isotope to cross the membrane more efficiently than the lighter, contrarily to what happened with graphdiyne membranes, where the sieving at low energy is predominantly ruled by quantum tunneling. The use of more approximate methods could be not advisable in these situations and prototypical transition state theory treatments might lead to large errors.

Metalated Graphyne-Based Networks as Two-Dimensional Materials: Crystallization, Topological Defects, Delocalized Electronic States, and Site-Specific Doping

Graphyne-based two-dimensional (2D) carbon allotropes feature extraordinary physical properties; however, their synthesis as crystalline single-layered materials has remained challenging. We report on the fabrication of large-area organometallic Ag-bis-acetylide networks and their structural and electronic properties on Ag(111) using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The metalated graphyne-based networks are robust at room temperature and assembled in a bottom-up approach via surface-assisted dehalogenative homocoupling of terminal alkynyl bromides. Large-area networks of several hundred nanometers with topological defects at domain boundaries are obtained due to the Ag-acetylide bonds' reversible nature. The thermodynamically controlled growth mechanism is explained through the direct observation of intermediates, which differ on Ag(111) and Au(111). Scanning tunneling spectroscopy resolved unoccupied states delocalized across the network. The energy of these states can be shifted locally by the attachment of a different number of Br atoms within the network. DFT revealed that free-standing metal-bis-acetylide networks are semimetals with a linear band dispersion around several high-symmetry points, which suggest the presence of Weyl points. These results demonstrate that the organometallic Ag-bis-acetylide networks feature the typical 2D material properties, which make them of great interest for fundamental studies and electronic materials in devices.

Giant magnetoresistance and dual spin filtering effect in ferromagnetic 6,6,12/γ-graphyne zigzag nanoribbon lateral heterojunction

Based on non-equilibrium Green's function combined with density functional theory (NEGF-DFT), we investigate the spin dependent transport in the ferromagnetic 6,6,12/γ-graphyne zigzag nanoribbon (GYZNR) heterojunction under different magnetic configurations. It is found that, at low bias ([-0.05, 0.1] V), the junction presents metallic transport with negligible spin polarization in parallel configuration (PC) while it behaves as an insulator in anti-parallel configuration (APC), which results in giant magnetoresistance. Interestingly, when we increase the bias voltage beyond [-0.05, 0.1] V, dual spin filtering characterized by electron transport of different spin channels under different polarity of bias is observed in APC but not in PC. All these findings are understood from the symmetry matching of wave functions in two nanoribbons at equilibrium or finite bias. Furthermore, dual spin filtering can also be achieved in PC by applying a gate voltage on the central interface region, which arises from the shift of different single spin channel of the central gate region into the bias window at a different polarity of the gate voltage. Thus, our work demonstrates the great potential of the 6,6,12/γ-GYZNR heterojunction as a multi-functional device and its great perspectives in carbon-based nanoelectronics and spintronics.

Architecture and Electrochemical Performance of Alkynyl-Linked Naphthyl Carbon Skeleton: Naphyne

The synthesis of new sp-hybridized carbon allotropes is a meaningful and challenging issue. Among the alkynyl carbon family, polyaromatic alkynes is a new branch to be developed. Herein, naphyne with a frame construction of alkynyl-linked naphthyl skeleton was efficiently fabricated through targeted mechanochemical reaction of calcium carbide and perchloronaphthalene. Its unique property and structure with wide alkynyl-naphthyl conjugation, multilayered nanofilm morphology, and high structural stability were corroborated by the comprehensive characterizations combined with computational simulations. Because of these structural features, the as-prepared naphyne can be applied as high-performance binder-free supercapacitor electrode with high specific capacitance (154 F g^-1), robust long-term retention (92.1% after 5000 cycles), and prominent electrical conductivity (1490 S m^-1). The successful architecture of naphyne approves the feasible synthesis of polyaromatic alkynes and further may provide a prospective approach for the development of alkynyl carbon materials.

On-Surface Assembly of Hydrogen- and Halogen-Bonded Supramolecular Graphyne-Like Networks

Demonstrated here is a supramolecular approach to fabricate highly ordered monolayered hydrogen‐ and halogen‐bonded graphyne‐like two‐dimensional (2D) materials from triethynyltriazine derivatives on Au(111) and Ag(111). The 2D networks are stabilized by N⋅⋅⋅H−C(sp) bonds and N⋅⋅⋅Br−C(sp) bonds to the triazine core. The structural properties and the binding energies of the supramolecular graphynes have been investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy in combination with density‐functional theory calculations. It is revealed that the N⋅⋅⋅Br−C(sp) bonds lead to significantly stronger bonded networks compared to the hydrogen‐bonded networks. A systematic analysis of the binding energies of triethynyltriazine and triethynylbenzene derivatives further demonstrates that the X₃‐synthon, which is commonly observed for bromobenzene derivatives, is weaker than the X₆‐synthon for our bromotriethynyl derivatives.

A method for designing a novel class of gold-containing molecules

We propose a novel class of gold-containing molecules, which have been designed using conjugated carbon structures as templates. The sp-hybridized carbons of C₂ moieties are replaced with a gold atom and one of the adjacent carbons is replaced by nitrogen. Applying the procedure to hexadehydro[12]annulene yields the well-known cyclic trinuclear gold(i) carbeniate complex. Planar, tubular and cage-shaped complexes can be obtained by taking similar sp-hybridized carbon structures as the starting point.

Fundament and Application of Graphdiyne in Electrochemical Energy

The artificial synthesis of graphdiyne (GDY) in 2010 successfully fills the blank of low temperature preparation of all-carbon allotropes. GDY is an emerging two-dimensional (2D) planar carbon material composed of benzene rings moieties (sp² carbon atoms), butadiyne (sp carbon atoms) linkers, and well dispersed electron-rich cavities, forming a large π-conjunction structure. GDY has attracted increasing attention in many fields. GDY is the first carbon material with both 2D fast transfer channels for electrons and 3D channels for ions. The 2D electron-rich all-carbon nature endows GDY with considerable conductivity and tunable electronic properties, and the in-plane cavities give it intrinsic selectivity and accessibility for electrochemically active metal ions. In addition, its easy preparation under mild conditions well complements the disadvantages of the traditional sp²-hybridized carbon materials (carbon nanotubes, graphene, and graphite) in the highly efficient synthesis and processing for potential electrochemical applications. As an all-carbon material, the unique advantages of GDY in both structure and preparation match well the urgent demands in key materials for solving many challenging problems in recent electrochemical areas and beyond. During the last decade since the first preparation of GDY, it has already achieved much enlightening and creative progress in both fundamental scientific research and forward-looking applications. This Account is intended not to summarize all this progress in preparation and applications but to outline some newly reported interesting phenomena in both high-quality preparation and electrochemical applications. This Account mainly discusses the recent progress in electrochemical applications: (i) constructing new concepts and new functions in electrochemical interfaces for realizing highly active electrochemical catalysts in the fields of water splitting and oxygen reduction reaction and (ii) building a highly stable conductive network and electrochemical interface for reversible energy storage. In the field of electrochemical catalysis, based on current studies of structural advantages and superior performance, atomic catalysis with metal atoms anchored in GDY is encouraging, owing to the desirable immobilizing capability of electron-rich dialkyne cavities toward metal atoms and corresponding electron transfer. For high-energy batteries, the in situ growth of the all-carbon GDY on the various battery electrodes shows great promise for solving key practical problems (safety, long lifespan, high power), which are ascribed to weak interfacial stability. In addition, the perspective application of GDY to broader interfacial modifications is described, bringing new choices for solving the interfacial challenges in various energy storage devices.