Recent advances in two-dimensional metal pnictogenide nanosheets and their nanohybrids with diverse energy applications

Abstract

Two-dimensional inorganic nanosheets have received prime attention because of their intriguing physicochemical properties and diverse functionalities. The reactivity and properties of inorganic nanosheets are influenced by their bonding characteristics and electronic structures. Consequently, controlling their chemical compositions and crystal structures can enhance the electrochemical and catalytic functionalities of these two-dimensional nanosheets. As an emerging family of inorganic nanosheets, two-dimensional transition metal pnictogenide nanosheets, characterized by highly covalent bonding, have attracted emerging attention owing to their excellent catalyst and electrode performances resulting from their high electrical conductivity, high surface reactivity, and high stability. Additionally, transition metal pnictogenide nanosheets are promising hybridization matrices that enhance various functionalities of hybridized species via the effective formation of interfacial coordinative bonds. This review highlights the exceptional advantages of transition metal pnictogenide nanosheets in developing efficient energy-functional materials, with an in-depth discussion of dominant governing factors for improving their performances. Depending on the synthesis methods and application fields, this review surveys a wide range of two-dimensional transition metal pnictogenide nanosheets and their nanohybrids, along with various characterization tools. Future research directions for designing and synthesizing high-performance metal-pnictogenide-nanosheet-based materials are discussed, providing valuable insights for optimizing their functionalities crucial for many energy applications.