Z. Phys. Chem. 2019; 233(1): 117–165 Review Richard Hinterding* and Armin Feldhoff Two-Dimensional Oxides: Recent Progress in Nanosheets A Retrospection on Synthesis, Microstructure and Applications https://doi.org/10.1515/zpch-2018-1125 Received January 26, 2018; accepted February 27, 2018 Abstract: Two-dimensional (2D) materials have been widely investigated for the last few years, introducing nanosheets and ultrathin films. The often superior electrical, optical and mechanical properties in contrast to their three-dimen- sional (3D) bulk counterparts offer a promising field of opportunities. Especially new research fields for already existing and novel applications are opened by downsizing and improving the materials at the same time. Some of the most promising application fields are namely supercapacitors, electrochromic devices, (bio-) chemical sensors, photovoltaic devices, thermoelectrics, (photo-) catalysts and membranes. The role of oxides in this field of materials deserves a closer look due to their availability, durability and further advantages. Here, recent progress in oxidic nanosheets is highlighted and the benefit of 2D oxides for applications discussed in-depth. Therefore, different synthesis techniques and micro structures are compared more closely. Keywords: nanosheet; oxide; thermoelectric; two-dimensional; ultrathin film. 1 Introduction With the enablement of measuring functional properties of two-dimensional (2D) graphene sheets and the discovery of electrons being able to behave like Dirac-type fermions without restmass [1], new interest in 2D materials was awaken. Actual research considers all elements of the periodic table and their *Corresponding author: Richard Hinterding, Leibniz University Hannover, Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Callinstraße 3A, D-30176 Hannover, Germany, e-mail:
[email protected] Armin Feldhoff: Leibniz University Hannover, Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Callinstraße 3A, D-30176 Hannover, Germany 118 R.