A Review on Defect Engineering of Graphene

Defect Engineering” is a term, which means the application of controlled defects in the ultrathin arrangement of 2D materials to improve its structure and various properties. Graphene a 2D single atom thick layer allotrope of carbon shows outstanding crystalline structure, various physicochemical properties, remarkable optoelectronic properties, a very good thermal conductivity, charge transport performance, optical transparency, electronic characteristics and extraordinary band gap structure is regarded as the building material for fifth generation electronic and optoelectronic devices. The highly ordered lattice of graphene displays extraordinary device performance, but during growth and processing development of structural defects decreases the performances of the material in the devices. However, these defects can be modified by applying several advanced techniques, so that to realize better performances for device applications. Hence, “Defect engineering of Graphene” actually means perfection of the structure as well as the properties of graphene in order to enhance the functions by using organized defects. In nanotechnology, it is growing towards the route of a perfect material with superior properties for better device performances. This review briefly describes the recently applied advanced techniques that are useful for defect engineering of graphene i.e. Electron beam irradiation, plasma, chemical treatment and doping. Key words: Graphene, functionality, bandgap, e-beam irradiation, plasma, chemical treatment, doping.