The elemental 2D materials beyond graphene potentially used as hazardous gas sensors for environmental protection

Abstract

The intrinsic and electronic properties of elemental two-dimensional (2D) materials beyond graphene are first introduced in this review. Then the studies concerning the application of gas sensing using these 2D materials are comprehensively reviewed. On the whole, the carbon-, nitrogen-, and sulfur-based gases could be effectively detected by using most of them. For the sensing of organic vapors, the borophene, phosphorene, and arsenene may perform it well. Moreover, the G-series nerve agents might be efficiently monitored by the bismuthene. So far, there is still challenge on the material preparation due to the instability of these 2D materials under atmosphere. The synthesis or growth of materials integrated with the technique of surface protection should be associated with the device fabrication to establish a complete process for particular application. This review provides a complete and methodical guideline for scientists to further research and develop the hazardous gas sensors of these 2D materials in order to achieve the purpose of environmental protection.