Two-Dimensional In2X2X ' (X and X ' = S, Se, and Te) Monolayers with an Intrinsic Electric Field for High-Performance Photocatalytic and Piezoelectric Applications
Author(s): Wang, Pan; Liu, Hao; Zong, Yixin; Wen, Hongyu; Xia, Jian-Bai; Wu, Hai-Bin
Source: ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES Volume: 13 Issue: 29 Pages: 34178-34187 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c07096 Published: JUL 28 2021
Abstract: Two-dimensional (2D) materials with excellent photocatalytic properties and unique piezoelectric response have attracted great attention. However, these characters are rare for traditional 2D structures. With an intrinsic electric field, the Janus 2D materials show great promise in photocatalytic and out-of-plane piezoelectric applications. Herein, we show that Janus In2X2X' (X and X' = S, Se, and Te) monolayers are desirable in the overall water splitting and piezoelectric devices. Comprehensive investigations reveal that the band gaps of these Janus monolayers are from 0.34 to 2.27 eV. With proper band edge positions, strong solar absorption, fast transfer and efficient separation of carriers, and high solar to hydrogen (STH) efficiencies (reaching 37.70%), eight members of them stand out. Besides, the electrons and holes have sufficient driving forces in the process of redox reaction. The piezoelectric response for inand out-of-plane is superior for all monolayers. These compelling features make them suitable for photocatalysts, sensors, actuators, and energy conversion devices.
Accession Number: WOS:000679917500042
ISSN: 1944-8244
eISSN: 1944-8252
