Monolayer Amorphous Carbon: Synthesis, Properties, and Emerging Applications of a Novel Two-Dimensional Carbon Allotrope

Monolayer amorphous carbon (MAC) has emerged as a novel two-dimensional carbon allotrope with unique structural and functional properties, distinguishing it from crystalline counterparts like graphene. Unlike conventional carbon materials, MAC exhibits an atomically thin yet disordered atomic arrangement, offering tunable mechanical, electronic, and thermal properties. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advancements in MAC research, covering its synthesis strategies, fundamental characteristics, and diverse applications. Key synthesis methods, including chemical vapor deposition and solution-phase approaches, enable precise control over the disorder degree and functionality of MAC, while its exceptional toughness, adjustable conductivity, and thermal stability position it as a promising material for next-generation electronics, flexible devices, and nanofiltration technologies. Challenges and future directions, such as elucidating structure-property relationships and scalable production, are also discussed.