Synthesis and transfer of single-layer transition metal disulfides on diverse surfaces

Nano Lett. 2013 Apr 10;13(4):1852-7. doi: 10.1021/nl400687n. Epub 2013 Mar 29.

Abstract

Recently, monolayers of layered transition metal dichalcogenides (LTMD), such as MX2 (M = Mo, W and X = S, Se), have been reported to exhibit significant spin-valley coupling and optoelectronic performances because of the unique structural symmetry and band structures. Monolayers in this class of materials offered a burgeoning field in fundamental physics, energy harvesting, electronics, and optoelectronics. However, most studies to date are hindered by great challenges on the synthesis and transfer of high-quality LTMD monolayers. Hence, a feasible synthetic process to overcome the challenges is essential. Here, we demonstrate the growth of high-quality MS2 (M = Mo, W) monolayers using ambient-pressure chemical vapor deposition (APCVD) with the seeding of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid tetrapotassium salt (PTAS). The growth of a MS2 monolayer is achieved on various surfaces with a significant flexibility to surface corrugation. Electronic transport and optical performances of the as-grown MS2 monolayers are comparable to those of exfoliated MS2 monolayers. We also demonstrate a robust technique in transferring the MS2 monolayer samples to diverse surfaces, which may stimulate the progress on the class of materials and open a new route toward the synthesis of various novel hybrid structures with LTMD monolayer and functional materials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Disulfides / chemistry*
  • Electronics
  • Metals / chemistry*
  • Nanotechnology*
  • Perylene / chemistry
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Disulfides
  • Metals
  • Perylene