2D bismuth nanomaterials: from basic knowledge to recently applied energy applications

The excellent properties of 2D materials have gained credibility in research due to their potential in high-performance applications. 2D bismuth, extracted from bismuthine, exhibits remarkable properties suitable for energy conversion and storage applications. Moreover, when it comes to thermoelectric properties, 2D bismuth compounds such as bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) have high thermoelectric efficiency, meaning they can efficiently convert thermal differences into electrical energy. Thus, bismuth can be considered a very suitable material for thermoelectric generator applications due to its unique properties. On the other hand, the outstanding recyclability of the nature of the material has allowed it to be a great example of sodium ion batteries with excellent efficiency, and its improved electrochemical potential combined with its large surface area results in it being an effective catalyst for energy conversion and battery applications. Bismuth and related compounds tend to have high electrical conductivity, which is necessary to help supercapacitors charge and discharge more quickly, and their unique electrochemical properties allow them to operate over a wide range of voltages without degradation. The purpose of this review is to bridge the gaps between theoretical predictions and experimental achievements in the field of 2D energy-related applications by comprehensively examining material principles and cutting-edge fabrication methods. First, define the location of 2D Bi in the family of 2D materials, and then move on to explain its innate properties and many of its manufacturing methods and compounds. Recent findings focus on the preparation of 2D Bi-bismuth materials, with particular emphasis on their applications in energy technologies such as thermoelectric generators (TEGs), batteries, supercapacitors, gas storage and photodetectors.