“New paradigms in molecular nanocarbon science”
Iain A. Stepek, Mai Nagase, Akiko Yagi, Kenichiro Itami

Tetrahedron 2022, 119, accepted. Special issue for the 65th anniversary of Tetrahedron.

The discovery and study of new forms of carbon has always been inextricably linked to breakthroughs in science and technology. A flurry of recent developments in the synthesis of nanometer-sized carbon scaffolds, or nanocarbons, has enabled access to a vast array of novel classes of molecularly defined carbon architectures. Many of these advances have led to the advent of entirely new fields, including the study of carbon nanotube segments, surface-assisted nanographene synthesis, and the isolation of new carbon allotropes. In this perspective, we will discuss these critical breakthroughs, examine current state of the art techniques, and describe the ongoing challenges in this hugely diverse and rapidly expanding area of research.

Graphical Abstract is created by Dr. Issey Takahashi, ITbM, Nagoya University