Graphynes: Electronic Properties, Synthesis, and Applications in Catalysis

With the development of energy-storage and conversion technology and pollution degradation technology, it is important to develop a low-cost and mass-produced catalyst with high catalytic activities. Graphynes are two-dimensional carbon materials made of sp and sp2 hybrid carbon atoms in accordance with certain rules. Theoretical calculations indicate that graphynes provide promising potential applications in catalysis due to their unique acetylene linkage, adjustable electronic properties, uniform pore, high degrees of π-conjugated systems, and excellent electron mobility. Additionally, the successful preparation of graphynes has made great progress in their catalytic applications. Therefore, this Review systematically outlines the recent studies about the structures, electronic properties, and synthetic strategies of graphynes, especially their applications in catalysis.