2D chalcogenide heterostructures: A discussion on its synthesis, properties and emerging applications

Abstract

Owing to the notable physical characteristics and the technological progressive applications, atomically thin 2D metal chalcogenides have fascinated the enhancing attention in recent times. Several interesting findings for these 2D materials have given away new phases, structures, and optical and electronic properties by numerous experimental methods. The probability of exfoliating and rebuilding various 2D materials into unsystematically and vertically stacked heterostructures is empowered by van der Waals interlayer interaction. Again, in search of new catalysts, intense investigation has been induced by the unique structural and electronic properties of the 2D materials. In the case of electrochemical reactions, the fabrication of various heterostructures based on 2D materials extends great opportunities for promoting catalytic activity. However, it has become a great challenge for the synthesis of the materials. For the direct synthesis of the vertical and lateral heterojunctions, vapor phase growth of the 2D material has been opened the way. It has become a structured way to recognize high-quality, large-scale, 2D materials, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) has been brought forward lately, which has exhibited great feasibility in 2D metal chalcogenide heterostructures. This review highlights the heterostructure types, synthesis methods, various properties, and applications of the materials. In the synthesis of heterostructures, methods such as hydrothermal, solvothermal, microwave-assisted heating, and other processes are discussed. The growth mechanism of the synthesis method has also been elaborated here. Various properties and applications of the materials have taken an important part of the review. The advantages of the properties like optoelectronic, thermal, electrical, etc, with various potential applications are explored. Finally, the application of the materials in various fields, such as photodetection, solar cells, and catalysis, is highlighted.