Synthesis, properties and applications of 2D layered MX (M = Ga, In; X = S, Se, Te) materials.

Group III-VI compounds MX (M = Ga, In; X = S, Se, Te) are one class of important 2D layered materials and are currently attracting increasing interest due to their unique electronic and optoelectronic properties and their great potential applications in various other fields. Similar to 2D layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), MX also have the significant merits of ultrathin thickness, ultrahigh surface-to-volume ratio, and high compatibility with flexible devices. More impressively, in contrast with TMDCs, MX demonstrate many superior properties, such as direct band gap electronic structure, high carrier mobility, rare p-type electronic behaviors, high charge density, and so on. These unique characteristics cause high-performance device applications in electronics, optoelectronics, and optics. In this review, we aim to provide a summary of the state-of-the-art of research activities in 2D layered MX materials. The scope of the review covers the synthesis and properties of 2D layered MX materials and their van der Waals heterostructures. We especially focus on the applications in electronics and optoelectronics. Moreover, the review concludes with some perspectives on future developments in this field.