Dualgraphen

Dualgraphen is a proposed two-dimensional carbon allotrope consisting of two intertwined graphene-like lattices connected by periodic interlattice bonds. The term reflects the dual graphene motifs that form the backbone of the structure, yielding a planar network that differs from single-layer graphene and from simple bilayer stacks.

Structurally, Dualgraphen is envisioned as a hexagonal carbon lattice in which two sublattices are linked by covalent bridges. The interlattice connections modify the electronic structure, potentially opening a tunable bandgap and producing anisotropic charge transport. The material is predicted to exhibit high in-plane stiffness and mechanical resilience, along with strong thermal conductivity inherited from the graphene motif.

Synthesis and experimental realization remain at an early stage. The concept has emerged from theoretical modeling and computer simulations, with preliminary attempts reported in on-surface synthesis and bottom-up fabrication on catalytic substrates. Achieving precise control of interlattice bonding, reducing defects, and stabilizing the material under ambient conditions are central challenges. Scalable production and integration with devices are ongoing research goals.

Potential applications include flexible electronics, high-performance transistors, energy-storage electrodes, and catalysis, where the buried interlattice bonds could influence reactivity and charge storage. As a nascent field, Dualgraphen research focuses on understanding structure–property relationships, developing reliable synthesis routes, and benchmarking against established carbon allotropes.