Chemical Nanomanipulation of Two-Dimensional Nanosheets and Its Applications

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets obtained via exfoliation of layered compounds have attracted intensive research in recent years, opening up new fields in the science and technology of 2D nanomaterials.1-6 These 2D nanosheets, which possess atomic or molecular thickness and infinite planar dimensions, are emerging as important new materials due to their unique properties. Research in such exotic 2D systems recently intensified as a result of emerging progress in graphene (carbon nanosheet)1, 2 and novel functionalities in oxide nanosheets.3-5 In particular, oxide nanosheets are exceptionally rich in both structural diversity and electronic properties, with potential application in areas ranging from catalysis to electronics. Now, by using the exfoliation approach, it is possible to investigate dozens of different 2D oxide nanosheets in search of new phenomena and applications. One of the important and attractive aspects of the exfoliated nanosheets is that various nanostructures can be fabricated using them as 2D building blocks.7-18 It is even possible to tailor superlattice-like assemblies, incorporating into the nanosheet galleries a wide range of materials such as organic molecules, polymers, and inorganic and metal nanoparticles. Sophisticated functionalities or nanodevices may be designed through the selection of nanosheets and combining materials, and precise control over their arrangement at the molecular scale. In this chapter, we review the current research on oxide nanosheets. Our particular focus is placed on recent progress that has been made in the synthesis and properties of oxide nanosheets, highlighting emerging functionalities in electronic applications.