Graphenelike

Graphenelike refers to materials that possess structural or electronic properties analogous to graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. Graphene itself is renowned for its exceptional electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, and optical transparency. Materials described as graphenelike often exhibit one or more of these remarkable characteristics, though not necessarily all of them to the same degree as pristine graphene.

This term can encompass a range of substances. It might describe other 2D materials with layered structures, such as hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), which is often called "white graphene" due to its similar hexagonal arrangement of atoms and its insulating properties. Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), like molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), also form atomically thin layers and share some electronic behaviors with graphene, making them graphenelike in certain contexts. Furthermore, composite materials incorporating graphene or its derivatives can be considered graphenelike if they leverage the properties of graphene to enhance their performance.

The concept of graphenelike extends beyond strictly 2D materials. Certain porous carbon structures, with their intricate network of interconnected pores and high surface area, can exhibit graphenelike electronic transport or catalytic activity. Similarly, certain metallic nanostructures can mimic the unique electronic band structure of graphene, leading to graphenelike electronic responses. The term serves as a useful descriptor for materials that evoke the extraordinary attributes of graphene, facilitating communication and research within materials science and related fields.