Nanosheet architectonics: a hierarchically structured assembly for tailored fusion materials

Hierarchical self-assembly is a ubiquitous process in nature that underlies the formation of complex biological structures. In recent decades, scientists have aspired to exploit biomimetic approaches to create new artificial materials with hierarchical structures and tailored properties. However, de novo design of such hierarchically structured materials is still a major challenge. In this Focus Review, we provide an overview of new design principles for hierarchical nanoarchitectures using a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of two-dimensional (2D) oxide nanosheets. 2D oxide nanosheets have remarkable potential as building blocks for tailoring fusion materials combined with a range of foreign materials such as organic molecules, gels, polymers, and inorganic and metal nanoparticles. The ability to create functionalized, 2D hierarchical systems will lead to various applications in optoelectronics, spinelectronics, energy and environment technologies.