A graphyne-like porous carbon-rich network synthesized via alkyne metathesis

Abstract

The synthesis of graphyne has been considered challenging, especially when it comes to adopting new topologies and obtaining thinner layers. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of a graphyne-like porous carbon-rich network via alkyne metathesis reactions, which resulted in a sp²/sp hybridized 2D thin film structure with a layer to layer distance of 0.37 nm. This graphyne-like porous carbon-rich network is an n-type semiconductor with a low work function of 3.9 eV and a reduction potential of −0.54 V vs. SHE, which could be applied as an excellent reducing agent for metal electroless deposition. In addition, this material has a narrow pore size distribution of 2 to 4 nm, a high surface area of 675 m² g⁻¹ and a large pore volume of 0.795 cm³ g⁻¹ favoring gas adsorption. It shows the selective absorption of CO₂ over N₂ owing to the strong affinity between CO₂ and the carbon–carbon triple bond.