Diels–Alder reactions for carbon material synthesis and surface functionalization

To meet the ever growing demand for carbon nanomaterials with tailored properties, Diels–Alder reactions are emerging as an efficient alternative to other synthetic methods. From an application perspective, the development of convenient surface functionalization strategies for carbon nanostructures is of paramount importance. Pristine carbon nanostructures display a natural tendency to undergo Diels–Alder reactions with a range of functional dienes and dienophiles without the need of a catalyst. This has sparked significant scientific interest in exploiting the Diels–Alder reaction as a powerful strategy for their synthesis as well as for their subsequent surface functionalization. The present review highlights the remarkable role of Diels–Alder reactions for the synthesis of fullerenes, carbon nanotubes and graphene, and its promise as a facile carbon nanostructure functionalization strategy with small molecules and polymer chains. A critical overview of the recent developments evidencing the potential of Diels–Alder reactions as an efficient route to carbon based functional materials is presented.