Structural symmetry breaking in 2D CrOCl enables multiphysics coupling and functional tunability

As an emerging low-symmetry two-dimensional (2D) magnetic material, CrOCl provides a unique platform for multidimensional physical effect modulation owing to its orthogonal lattice-induced structural symmetry breaking. This review systematically examines the intrinsic properties of CrOCl in magnetic, optical, and thermal domains, revealing its magnetic-field-dependent resistance switching behavior, significant optical anisotropy, and anomalous thermal transport mechanisms. Furthermore, it elaborates on various property modulation strategies, including strain engineering to enhance magnetic ordering temperature, high-pressure-induced phase transitions, dimensional engineering for topological state construction, and carrier doping to surpass room-temperature ferromagnetism limitations. Regarding heterostructure fabrication, the interfacial synergistic effects between CrOCl and materials such as metals and graphene are comprehensively analyzed, elucidating their critical roles in spin valves, quantum transport, and photodetection. With advancements in synthesis techniques like chemical vapor transport, the application prospects of CrOCl-based devices in polarized optical modulation, spin storage, and three-dimensional integrated logic circuits are prospectively explored. By establishing a comprehensive “structural characteristics-property modulation-interface design-functional expansion” framework, this review provides theoretical guidance and technical support for quantum device development in 2D magnetic materials.