Molecular 'velcro': Covalent bonds between 2D materials unlock enhanced optoelectronic capabilities

Researchers have chemically linked 2D materials using a molecular "velcro," resulting in a device with improved optoelectronic properties. The device, made of palladium nanosheets covalently bonded with MoS2, shows an enhanced optoelectronic response in the infrared thanks to the chemically bonded interface between the two materials, in comparison to its van der Waals counterpart. This next generation of 2D-2D heterostructures goes beyond van der Waals thanks to the strong covalent bonds between its 2D materials.