Two-dimensional nanomaterials with engineered bandgap: Synthesis, properties, applications

Encouraged by its excellent electronic, optical, and mechanical properties, two-dimensional nanomaterials, including graphene, germanene, silicene, phosphorene, transition metal dichalcogenides, hexagonal boron nitride and so on, have generated significant research interests in a wide range of fields. In many applications, bandgap perform an important and even decisive role. However, there are very limited works that focused on a highly comprehensive overview of bandgap engineering in two-dimensional nanomaterials. Here, we review the feasibility, methods, and effects on applications of bandgap engineering in two-dimensional nanomaterials. We first provide a brief introduction on the physical significance of bandgap in two-dimensional nanomaterials. Then, based on the effect on the structure of two-dimensional nanomaterials, we introduce several methods to control and regulate the bandgap. Thereafter, bandgap engineering in different two-dimensional nanomaterials using various methods is summarized in detail. Further, we also emphasize the optimization of application performance through bandgap engineering. Finally, the challenges and outlooks in two-dimensional nanomaterials are proposed based on the current development status and future requirements. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Two-dimensional nanomaterials, such as graphene, germanene, and phosphorene, have attracted significant research interests due to their excellent properties. This review article focuses on the feasibility, methods, and effects of bandgap engineering in two-dimensional nanomaterials, emphasizing the importance of optimizing application performance.