title: Carbocatalysis: the state of "metal-free" catalysis.
abstract: The rise in global demand for crucial chemical compounds has driven immense research in the fundamental science of catalysis. Graphene and its derivatives (chemically modified graphene, CMGs) have recently emerged as a new class of heterogeneous catalyst that promises economically viable and greener routes to these compounds. Although CMGs possess unique catalytic properties, the actual active sites are often points of discussion. Current minimal understanding on the possible effects of metallic impurities on the electrocatalytic performances of these CMGs calls forth the need to raise awareness on possible metallic impurities misrepresenting the actual chemical catalytic performances of the CMGs. This Minireview highlights the latest advances in the application of CMGs as catalysts, with an emphasis on the possible effects of metallic impurities on CMG catalysis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry&Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21, Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371 (Singapore).
authors.forename: Chun Kiang
authors.initials: CK
authors.lastname: Chua
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry&Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21, Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371 (Singapore). pumera.research@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Martin
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Pumera
keywords: electrocatalysis; graphene; green chemistry; heterogeneous catalysis; impurities