In the rapidly evolving world of materials science, a recent review published in the *Journal of Physics Materials* (translated from *JPhys Materials*) is shedding light on the remarkable progress in bilayer van der Waals (vdW) materials, particularly bilayer graphene (BLG) and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). These materials are garnering significant attention due to their unique optical and electronic properties, which could revolutionize the energy sector and beyond.
Led by Zhaoli Gao from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at The Chinese University of Hong Kong and the CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, the review delves into the latest advancements in the synthesis and properties of BLG and TMDs. “The controlled synthesis of these materials has seen tremendous progress, opening up new avenues for their application in various fields,” Gao explains.
The review highlights the intriguing properties of BLG and TMDs, which vary depending on their composition, stacking configurations, and twisting angles. These properties make them highly attractive for use in energy storage, photovoltaics, and electronic devices. One of the key breakthroughs discussed is the large-scale chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth of BLG and TMDs, which results in large domain sizes, high quality, and strong interlayer coupling.
“The ability to produce high-quality bilayer materials on a large scale is a game-changer,” says Gao. “It brings us one step closer to practical applications in the energy sector, where these materials could enhance the efficiency and performance of various technologies.”
The review also explores the current understanding of the growth mechanisms of BLG by CVD and the synthetic methods of bilayer TMDs. By addressing the crucial challenges in BLG synthesis and offering perspectives on the future of bilayer TMDs, the research provides a comprehensive overview of the field’s current state and potential directions.
As the energy sector continues to seek innovative solutions for sustainable and efficient power generation and storage, the advancements in BLG and TMDs synthesis could play a pivotal role. The insights provided by Gao and their team not only highlight the scientific achievements but also underscore the commercial impacts of these materials.
In the words of the researchers, “The future of bilayer vdW materials is bright, and their potential applications in the energy sector are vast. As we continue to unravel the complexities of these materials, we edge closer to harnessing their full potential for the benefit of society.”
This review, published in *JPhys Materials*, serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts and breakthroughs in materials science, paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.