Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 February 2013
Graphene, a monolayer of sp2-bonded carbon atoms, has been attracting worldwide interests because of its unique two-dimensional structure, various fascinating properties and a wide range of intriguing potential applications. The graphene research is very active in China and has been developing rapidly in the past few years, which covers nearly all the areas related to graphene including theories, synthesis, physical and chemical properties, and applications. Over 100 research institutions have been involved in graphene research with fast-growing project supports. In this paper, the status of graphene research in China is first discussed based on the number of publications and patents as well as the institutions involved. Then the projects and fundings from both government and companies for graphene research are briefly introduced. Finally, the highlights of graphene research in China are reviewed, which include chemical vapor deposition growth and transfer, mass production, and assembly of graphene, and its applications in energy storage, sensing, composites and solar cells.