Nano-makisu: highly anisotropic two-dimensional carbon allotropes made by weaving together nanotubes.

Graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNT) are the representatives of two-dimensional (2D) and one-dimensional (1D) forms of carbon, both exhibiting unique geometric structures and peculiar physical and chemical properties. Herein, we propose a family or series of 2D carbon-based highly anisotropic Dirac materials by weaving together an array of CNTs by direct C-C bonds or by graphene ribbons. By employing first-principles calculations, we demonstrate that these nano-makisus are thermally and dynamically stable and possess unique electronic properties.

Macrocycles inserted in graphene: from coordination chemistry on graphene to graphitic carbon oxide.

Tuning electronic structures and properties through chemical modifications has become the focus of recent research on graphene. The adsorption of metal atoms on graphene showed strong potential but is limited due to weak binding. On the other hand, macrocyclic molecules are well known for their strong and selective binding with metal atoms in solutions through coordination bonds.