Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Interfacing Photoactive Molecular Components for Managing Energy Conversion Processes

Abstract

The remarkable properties of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), represented by molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), make them promising candidates as active nanomaterials for optoelectronics, electronic, and electrochemical applications. Different exfoliation methods can drastically alter the properties of TMDs, changing the metallic–semiconducting polytype or creating defects, while further chemical surface modification offers additional routes to tune the properties of TMDs by adding new functions. In this timely review, a general outlook on the most representative examples of TMD‐based materials interfacing photoactive components, such as porphyrins and phthalocyanines among others, yielding electron donor–acceptor hybrids and nanoensembles for energy conversion schemes, specifically for managing charge transfer events, is presented. The covalent and noncovalent approaches for the coupling of the aforesaid photoactive species with TMDs and their photophysical characterization are highlighted. Moreover, the properties, preparation methods, and characterization techniques of TMDs, mainly for MoS2, are also briefly discussed. Finally, perspectives and challenges of this emerging area are showcased, aiming to increase scientific attention and enhance not only the performance but also their applicability.

Keywords

• charge transfer
• energy conversion
• photosensitizers
• phthalocyanines
• porphyrins
• transition metal dichalcogenides