Graphene, the two-dimensional form of carbon, has received a great deal of attention across academia and industry due to its extraordinary electrical, mechanical, thermal, chemical, and optical properties. In view of the potential impact of graphene on numerous and diverse applications in electronics, novel materials, energy, transport, and healthcare, large-scale graphene production is a challenge that must be addressed. In the past decade, top-down production has demonstrated high potential for scale-up. This review features the recent progress made in top-down production methods that have been proposed for the manufacturing of graphene-based products. Fabrication methods such as liquid-phase mechanical, chemical and electrochemical exfoliation of graphite are outlined, with a particular focus on nonoxidizing routes for graphene production. Analysis of exfoliation mechanisms, solvent considerations, key advantages and issues, and important production characteristics including production rate and yield, where applicable, are outlined. Future challenges and opportunities in graphene production are also highlighted. (c) 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 3246-3276, 2018