Two-dimensional crystals: Beyond graphene

Human progress and development has always been marked by breakthroughs in the control of materials. Since pre-historic times, through the stone, bronze, and iron ages, humans have exploited their environment for materials that can be either used directly or can be modified for their benefit, to make their life more comfortable, productive, or to give them military advantage. One age replaces another when the material that is the basis for its sustainability runs its course and is replaced by another material which presents more qualities. Multi-tasking, speed, versatility, and flexibility are at the heart of modern technology. In recent years a new class of materials that can fulfill these needs have emerged: two-dimensional (2D) crystals. Graphene is probably the most famous example, but there are numerous other examples with amazing electronic and structural properties. In this paper we look into the possible routes for exploration of this new field that presents new venues in basic science as well as in applications. © 2011 by American Scientific Publishers All rights reserved.