Graphene is the thinnest known material, a sheet of carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal cells a single atom thick, and yet stronger than diamond. It has potentially significant applications in nanotechnology, 'beyond-silicon' electronics, solid-state realization of high-energy phenomena and as a prototype membrane which could revolutionise soft matter and 2D physics. In this book, leading graphene research theorist Mikhail Katsnelson presents the basic concepts of graphene physics. Topics covered include Berry phase, topologically protected zero modes, Klein tunneling, vacuum reconstruction near supercritical charges, and deformation-induced gauge fields. The book also introduces the theory of flexible membranes relevant to graphene physics and discusses electronic transport, optical properties, magnetism and spintronics. Standard undergraduate-level knowledge of quantum and statistical physics and solid state theory is assumed. This is an important textbook for graduate students in nanoscience and nanotechnology and an excellent introduction for physicists and materials science researchers working in related areas.

‘… the first of its kind for the field of graphene, and a very successful book. Starting from the basics, at student level, it guides the reader to the most important results in the field of graphene physics to date … This book is not only a brilliant systematic overview of the state-of-the-art in graphene research to date; it also offers a program of research for the next few years.’

Dr Kostya Novoselov - University of Manchester, co-recipient (together with Professor A. Geim) of the 2010 Nobel Prize in Physics

'Katsnelson has himself contributed many important theoretical publications to this subject area from the very beginning of this booming field. The present book deals with the fundamentals which will not be modified as quickly as the possible applications … the reader will benefit from an extensive list of references and a comprehensive index. The whole book is well produced, with carefully chosen figures … At the bottom line, the book can be recommended to students interested in the physical fundamentals of the phenomenon of graphene. Unlike three-dimensional materials science, theory is ahead of experiment in many aspects of exploring physical and chemical properties. Hence researchers who want to get suggestions for further projects can also take advantage of having a copy of Graphene at hand.'

Peter Paufler Source: Journal of Applied Crystallography