2D-Materials

Graphene

Graphene, a truly two-dimensional and fully π-conjugated honeycomb carbon network, is currently evolving into the most promising successor to silicon in micro- and nano-electronic applications. However, its wider application is impeded by the difficulties in opening a bandgap in its gapless band-structure, as well as the lack of processability in the resultant intrinsically insoluble material. Covalent chemical modification of the π-electron system is capable of addressing both of these issues through the introduction of variable chemical decoration. Although there has been significant research activity in the field of functionalized graphene, most work to date has focused on the use of graphene oxide.

Transition Metals Dichalcogenides

Beyond graphene, two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have aroused enormous interest in recent years due to their intriguing properties and a wide array of potential applications. To further tailor their colloidal and surface properties and fully harness their capabilities, functionalization of 2D TMDs is a crucial step. To this end, we are focusing on developing synthetic concepts to modify the surface chemistry of such 2D materials, analyzing the materials using state-of-the-art techniques, and exploring the interface properties and underlying mechanisms involved in the surface modification process. With this knowledge in hand, we are able to provide more fundamental understanding on the surface chemistry of 2D TMDs, which enables the further exploration of 2D TMDs related applications.