Forurenes

Forurenes are a class of two‑dimensional carbon‑based nanomaterials that consist of planar networks of fused aromatic rings interlinked by heteroatom‑containing bridge units. The term combines “functionalized” and “graphene” to reflect their derivation from graphene‑like lattices while incorporating a variety of functional groups that modify electronic, mechanical, and chemical properties. Unlike pristine graphene, whose carbon atoms are arranged in a uniform honeycomb lattice, forurenes contain periodic insertions of oxygen, nitrogen, or sulfur atoms within the carbon framework, creating a tunable band structure and enhanced chemical reactivity.

Synthesis of forurenes typically proceeds through bottom‑up approaches such as on‑surface polymerization of pre‑designed molecular precursors under ultra‑high vacuum, or via chemical vapor deposition using heteroatom‑doped carbon sources. Post‑synthetic oxidation or plasma treatment can also introduce functional bridges in existing graphene sheets, converting them into forurene structures. The resulting materials display a range of electronic behaviors, from semiconducting gaps of 0.5–2 eV to metallic conduction, depending on the density and type of heteroatom linkers.

Research interest in forurenes stems from their potential applications in flexible electronics, sensing, and energy conversion. The presence of heteroatoms facilitates charge transfer and catalytic activity, making forurenes promising electrocatalysts for water splitting and CO₂ reduction. Their adjustable mechanical flexibility and high surface area also suit them for use in breathable membranes and high‑capacity supercapacitors. Ongoing studies focus on scalable production methods, precise control of functional group placement, and integration of forurene films into device architectures. Current literature indicates rapid growth in both theoretical modeling and experimental validation, positioning forurenes as a versatile platform within the broader family of carbon nanomaterials.