Robust Amphiphobic Few-Layer Black Phosphorus Nanosheet with Improved Stability

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Few-layer black phosphorus (FL-BP) exhibits promising electronic and optoelectronic properties.
• The practical application of FL-BP is hindered by its inherent instability, particularly in ambient conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the stability of few-layer black phosphorus (FL-BP).
• To investigate the effect of amphiphobic functionalization on FL-BP stability and resistance to contaminants.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of FL-BP surface with 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane (PFDTS) to achieve amphiphobicity.
• Evaluation of the stability of PFDTS-coated FL-BP (FL-BP/PFDTS) in a high humidity environment (95%) for two months.
• Assessment of FL-BP/PFDTS surface repellency in the presence of oleic acid and other organic solvents.

Main Results:

• The PFDTS coating significantly enhanced the stability of FL-BP, preventing degradation for two months in 95% humidity.
• FL-BP/PFDTS demonstrated strong water repellency even with oleic acid contamination, unlike other coatings.
• The amphiphobic coating maintained FL-BP/PFDTS stability against various organic solvents and humid conditions.

Conclusions:

• Amphiphobic functionalization of FL-BP with PFDTS is an effective strategy for stabilization.
• This approach significantly improves FL-BP durability in challenging environments, paving the way for practical applications.