Introduction. Carbon-based electronics: fundamentals and device applications

Carbon-based materials offer a number of exciting possibilities for both new science and applications. Many of these are based on the novel band structure of graphene, by which solids mimic the properties of relativistic fermions and which offers the potential for high speed nanoscale electronics. When sheets of graphene are rolled up to make carbon nanotubes, further interesting properties are found; for example, both semiconducting and metallic nanotubes able to be produced. The novel properties of these new materials, together with the already remarkable properties of diamond itself, are discussed by a series of experts who came together in May 2007 to discuss and debate the potential for future development.