Two-dimensional noble transition-metal dichalcogenides for nanophotonics and optoelectronics: Status and prospects

An emerging subclass of transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), noble-transition-metal dichalcogenides (NMDs), has led to an increase in nanoscientific research in two-dimensional (2D) materials. NMDs feature a unique structure and several useful properties. 2D NMDs are promising candidates for a broad range of applications in areas such as photodetectors, phototransistors, saturable absorbers, and meta optics. In this review, the state of the art of 2D NMDs research, their structures, properties, synthesis, and potential applications are discussed, and a perspective of expected future developments is provided.