Chapter 4 - Inorganic analogues of graphene: Synthesis, characterization, and applications

Abstract

The structure, synthesis, characterization, and applications of inorganic analogues of graphene (two-dimensional (2-D) materials) are discussed here. Exfoliation of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) in organic solvents and aqueous solutions is reviewed. Characterization of nanolayers of h-BN by specific spectroscopic and microscopic techniques is discussed from an experimental point of view. Applications of “white graphene” (h-BN) in electronics and beyond are also reviewed. Next, we discuss the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), which have a graphene-like structure. MoS2 was taken as a representative member of this family in order to discuss the preparation, characterization, and applications of TMDs. Subsequently, MXenes, which are structural analogues of TMDs, were reviewed. MXenes are being explored for applications in energy storage, electromagnetic shielding, and biomedicine. We close this chapter with discussion of other monoatomic-layered materials, such as phosphorene (few-layer black phosphorous). We have not included metal oxides and phosphates, many of which form 2-D materials as well. This chapter offer readers a general introduction to 2-D materials other than graphene and familiarizes them with its inorganic counterparts and their interesting chemistry.