Functionalization of MoS2 with 1,2-dithiolanes: toward donor-acceptor nanohybrids for energy conversion

Abstract

Chemical tuning MoS2 for energy applications: Living on the edge MoS2 can be chemically functionalized with organic functional units, to develop innovative hybrid materials suitable for energy conversion. Collaborative efforts between experimental and modeling teams at the Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute—National Hellenic Research Foundation, Greece, Institut des Materiaux Jean Rouxel—CNRS Nantes, France, Instituto de Nanociencia, Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain, and Chimie des Interactions Plasma-Surface, University of Mons, Belgium, reveal that chemical functionalization occurs preferentially on MoS2 edge sites. When photoactive components are attached to MoS2 edges, visible light illumination promotes efficient charge transfer within the hybrid material. Research along those lines may result in the construction of innovative solar and photoelectrochemical cells with high efficiencies.