Stability and passivation of 2D group VA elemental materials: black phosphorus and beyond

Since the successful isolation of graphene in 2004, two-dimensional (2D) materials have become one of the focuses in material science owing to their extraordinary physical and chemical properties. In particular, 2D group VA elemental materials exhibit fascinating thickness-dependent band structures. Unfortunately, the well-known instability issue hinders their fundamental researches and practical applications. In this review, we first discuss the degradation mechanism of black phosphorus (BP), a most studied group VA material. Next, we summarize the methods to enhance BP stability with the focus of multifunctional passivation. Finally, we briefly discuss the protection strategies of other emerging group VA materials in recent years. This review provides insight for the degradation mechanism and protecting strategy for 2D group VA elements materials, which will promote their potential applications in electronics, optoelectronics, and biomedicine.

Automated summary

Since the successful isolation of graphene in 2004, two-dimensional (2D) materials have attracted significant attention in material science due to their exceptional physical and chemical properties. However, the instability issue of 2D group VA elemental materials has limited their research and applications. This review discusses the degradation mechanism of black phosphorus and summarizes methods to enhance its stability, as well as briefly addresses the protection strategies of other emerging group VA materials.