One-Step Exfoliation and Hydroxylation of Boron Nitride Nanosheets with Enhanced Optical Limiting Performance

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanosheets are attracting increased attention because of their excellent optical properties. Inspired by the natural exfoliation of seaside rocks, we propose a chemical weathering concept for fabricating h-BN nanosheets from their bulk counterparts. We experimentally demonstrate that chemical weathering-assisted exfoliation is a simple and efficient method for preparing h-BN nanosheets. These nanolayers have a high solubility in water because of the hydroxylation of h-BN (OH-BNNS). Interestingly, the as-prepared OH-BNNSs exhibit excellent optical limiting properties with fascinating two-photon absorption. It is a new and advanced optical material in the application of sensitive optical components, and shield human eyes from laser-induced damage.