Chairformene

Chairformene is a theoretical carbon-rich framework described in speculative materials science as a class of molecular structures and allotropes distinguished by recurring chair-shaped motifs in their geometry. The name combines the chair-like ring shape with the suffix used for hydrocarbon forms, signaling a topology built from chair-inspired units.

Structure and characteristics

In proposed models, chairformene comprises fused chair-like rings linked through conjugated bonds, potentially forming a two-dimensional sheet or a three-dimensional network. The arrangement yields defined pores or voids and a degree of rigidity arising from the chair motifs. Predicted properties vary with how the motifs are connected, the level of functionalization, and the stacking arrangement.

Theoretical origin and synthesis prospects

Chairformene originated in computational studies that explore motif-based carbon networks as alternatives to known carbon allotropes. There is no reported experimental synthesis to date; researchers discuss conceptual pathways such as stepwise cyclization of polycyclic precursors or surface-assisted assembly to realize chairformene-like topologies. While several synthetic routes are proposed in theory, practical realization remains unresolved.

Properties and potential applications

Theoretical analyses suggest chairformene could exhibit high stability and tunable electronic behavior, ranging from semiconducting to metallic, depending on structure and functional groups. Predicted porosity might enable gas storage, selective catalysis, or molecular sieving. Due to its speculative status, concrete property measurements and performance assessments are not available.

Research status

Chairformene remains a theoretical construct within materials science. Its significance lies in exploring how chair-inspired motifs might influence carbon networks, guiding future experimental and computational investigations.

See also

Graphene, Graphynes, Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, Carbyne, Molecular frameworks.