Between Order and Confusion: Clearing up Structural Misconceptions in Carbon Materials Nomenclature

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Carbon materials are vital for energy storage, electrocatalysis, and the transition to an emission-free economy.
• Diverse carbonaceous materials with varying graphene stack orders are discussed, but precise characterization and terminology are often neglected.
• This ambiguity leads to miscommunication within the scientific community, particularly concerning "amorphous" carbon.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the terminology for different graphene-containing carbon materials: graphite, graphitic carbon, non-graphitic carbon, and amorphous carbon.
• To establish a consistent framework for describing these materials based on their structural differences.
• To promote accurate characterization and communication in carbon science.

Main Methods:

• Recalling IUPAC definitions for various carbon material types.
• Correlating material definitions with characteristic X-ray scattering patterns.
• Correlating material definitions with characteristic Raman spectra.

Main Results:

• Distinction between graphite, graphitic carbon, non-graphitic carbon, and amorphous carbon based on structural order.
• Identification of specific X-ray scattering patterns and Raman spectra indicative of each carbon type.
• Demonstration of how these techniques reveal fine structural differences.

Conclusions:

• Consistent terminology and characterization are essential for advancing carbon material science.
• X-ray scattering and Raman spectroscopy are key techniques for differentiating carbon materials.
• Clear definitions and characterization will improve research reproducibility and collaboration in the field.