| Abstract: |
Graphene, a single-atom-thick two-dimensional (2D) allotrope of carbon arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb lattice, has emerged as one of the most extraordinary materials discovered in the 21st century. Since its experimental isolation in 2004, graphene has attracted unprecedented scientific interest owing to its exceptional physical properties, including a Young's modulus of approximately 1 TPa, tensile strength of ~130 GPa, thermal conductivity ranging from 4840 to 5300 W/mK in suspended form, electron mobility up to 200,000 cm²/V•s, and optical transmittance of ~97.7%. The objectives of this study are to systematically characterize the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and optical properties of monolayer graphene and to quantitatively compare these properties with conventional materials. A secondary data-based review methodology is employed, drawing on peer-reviewed experimental and computational studies published between 2004 and 2025. The hypothesis posits that graphene's 2D structural confinement is the primary driver of its multi-domain property superiority. Results confirm that graphene substantially outperforms conventional materials across all measured physical domains. Discussion highlights the interdependence of graphene's structural uniqueness and its exceptional physical performance. The study concludes that graphene's verified properties make it a transformative platform material for future technologies. |
