Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2025

A Standard and Reliable Method to Fabricate Two-Dimensional Nanoelectronics
Published on: August 28, 2018
Two-dimensional anisotropic semiconductors: from structure and properties to device applications.
Jie Cheng1, Kailong Yu1, Jiyuan Xu1
1School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China. xiang.hengyang@njust.edu.cn.
This review overviews two-dimensional (2D) anisotropic semiconductors, detailing their electronic band structures, properties, and device applications. It highlights their potential for advanced electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Two-dimensional (2D) anisotropic semiconductors offer unique angle-dependent electronic and optical properties.
- Their distinct electronic band dispersion along different directions drives interest in electronic and optoelectronic applications.
- A comprehensive review bridging fundamental properties and device applications is currently lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the electronic band structures, optical properties, and device applications of 2D anisotropic semiconductors.
- To bridge the gap between fundamental electronic band structure properties and practical optoelectronic device applications.
- To promote future research in designing novel electronic and optoelectronic devices using these materials.
Main Methods:
- Summarizing crystal structures and electronic band structures of typical 2D anisotropic semiconductors.
- Reviewing characterization methods for anisotropic electrical and optical properties (conductance, Raman, photoluminescence, optical absorption, second-harmonic response).
- Comparing and concluding the performance of polarized optoelectronic devices, including photodetectors and imaging systems.
Main Results:
- Detailed summary of electronic band structures and crystal structures for key 2D anisotropic semiconductors.
- Comprehensive review of anisotropic electrical and optical property characterization techniques.
- Performance comparison of polarized optoelectronic devices, identifying trends and capabilities.
Conclusions:
- 2D anisotropic semiconductors possess significant potential for advanced electronic and optoelectronic applications.
- This review consolidates knowledge on their properties and device performance, guiding future research.
- Further exploration is needed to fully exploit their unique characteristics for novel device designs.
Related Concept Videos
Types of Semiconductors
Metal-Semiconductor Junctions
Schottky Barriers
Schottky barriers arise when a metal with a work function (Φm) contacts a semiconductor with a different work function (Φs). Initially, electrons transfer until the Fermi levels of the metal and semiconductor align at equilibrium. For instance, if Φm > Φs, the semiconductor Fermi level is higher than the metal's before contact. The...
Fermi Level
At absolute zero temperature, electrons fill all energy states up to the Fermi level, leaving upper states empty. As the temperature rises,...
Fermi Level Dynamics
Electron affinity in semiconductors refers to the energy gap between the minimum of its conduction band and the vacuum level and it is a critical parameter in determining how easily a semiconductor can accept additional electrons.
The work...
Band Theory
The energy difference between these bands is known as the band gap.
Conductor, Semiconductor,...
Biasing of Metal-Semiconductor Junctions
In Schottky junctions, where the semiconductor is n-type, applying a positive voltage to the metal relative to the semiconductor reduces its Fermi...

