ABSTRACT
Graphene is a two-dimensional carbon allotrope that is considered an enabling material for a wide range of future applications from nanoelectronics to mechanical composite reinforcements. This broad appeal of graphene is owed to the large possible range of graphene properties that depend on their morphology and defectiveness. We here review different synthesis routes that provide access to diverse members of this emergent, diverse materials class. To evaluate that distinct mechanical, electronic, and structural behavior of each graphene type, we introduce powerful characterization methods. Our contribution provides an overview of comprehensive spectroscopic, microscopic, and mechanical evaluation methods that can that help identify fitting areas of application for different graphene-based materials.
