Advances in 2D Group IV Monochalcogenides: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications

The field of newly developed two-dimensional (2D) materials with low symmetry and structural in-plane anisotropic properties has grown rapidly in recent years. The phosphorene analog of group IV monochalcogenides is a prominent subset of this group that has attracted a lot of attention because of its unique in-plane anisotropic electronic and optical properties, crystalline symmetries, abundance in the earth's crust, and environmental friendliness. This article presents a review of the latest research advancements concerning 2D group IV monochalcogenides. It begins with an exploration of the crystal structures of these materials, alongside their optical and electronic properties. The review continues by discussing the various techniques employed for the synthesis of layered group IV monochalcogenides, including both bottom-up methods such as vapor-phase deposition and top-down techniques like mechanical and/or liquid-phase exfoliation. In the final part, the article emphasizes the application of 2D group IV monochalcogenides, particularly in the fields of photocatalysis, photodetectors, nonlinear optics, sensors, batteries, and photovoltaic cells.