Cluster scattering effects on phonon conduction in graphene

Abstract

The phonon-scattering cross section associated with isotopic clusters is evaluated from first principles and used to estimate the reduction in thermal conductance of wide graphene samples. A strong sensitivity of the thermal conductivity toward clustering is predicted for micrometer-sized samples at low-temperatures. Important differences are obtained between the atomistically computed cross section, and existing analytical approximations, emphasizing the importance of atomistic investigations of thermal transport. Finally, possible techniques are suggested for synthesizing graphene containing isotopic clusters.