2Dmateriaaleja

2Dmateriaaleja, often translated as 2D materials, refers to a class of materials that are atomically thin, with a thickness of only one or a few atoms. These materials possess unique electronic, optical, and mechanical properties that differ significantly from their bulk counterparts. The most well-known example of a 2D material is graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. Since the isolation of graphene, researchers have discovered and synthesized many other 2D materials, including transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) like molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and tungsten disulfide (WS2), hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), and phosphorene.

The exceptional properties of 2D materials stem from their reduced dimensionality. Quantum mechanical effects become dominant, leading to phenomena such as high electron mobility, tunable bandgaps, and remarkable strength-to-weight ratios. These characteristics make 2D materials promising for a wide range of applications. In electronics, they are being explored for next-generation transistors, flexible displays, and sensors. Their optical properties are being utilized in photodetectors, solar cells, and light-emitting devices. Furthermore, their unique surface chemistry and large surface area make them suitable for catalysis and energy storage. The ongoing research and development in the field of 2D materials continue to uncover new possibilities and push the boundaries of material science and technology.