ABSTRACT
One of the newest potential carbon allotropes being investigated exhibits the bare minimum possible molecular structure—a one-dimensional monoatomistic chain of atoms known as carbyne. Theoretically, carbyne may take a cumulene ([=C=]) repeating double bond form, or a polyyne form with alternating single and triple bonds (–[CEC]–1, which has been determined to be more energetically favorable. Carbyne is known to have a relatively high axial tensile stiffness and, due to its monoatomistic cross section, incredible specific strength and high surface area per given mass. Carbyne’s practical applications include energy storage devices and nanoscale electronic devices. Due to its tunable electrical properties, it is also possible that carbyne could act as a smart connection between electronic or mechanical components at the atomistic scale. Due to its chemical stability, mechanical properties, and the natural abundance of carbon, carbyne applications could lead the way in nanotechnology applications. This molecular rod or cable has potential as an effective wire or even structural element at the nanoscale.
