A Strong Alternative To Graphene: Silicon Nanosheets

Silicon nanosheets are known for being ultrathin 2D layers that have extraordinary optoelectronic properties quite identical with that of graphene. But, these nanosheets are quite unstable. So, now a team of researchers from the Technical University of Munich came up with a composite material that presents a blend of a polymer and silicon nanosheets. It is definitely a significant step towards industrial applications such as photosensors and flexible displays. Quite similar to carbon, silicon is able to form 2-D networks that have thickness of just one atom. Just like graphene, these layers have special optoelectrical properties. Silicon nanosheets can, thus may have an application in the field of photodetectors, such as the flexible displays, photodetectors, or the field-effect transistors. As it has the ability to keep lithium ions safe, this can also be used in form of anode material with rechargeable lithium batteries.

According to Tobias Helbich, a professor from macromolecular chemistry department of TUM, “Silicon nanosheets are particularly interesting because today’s information technology builds on silicon and, unlike with graphene, the basic material does not need to be exchanged. However, the nanosheets themselves are very delicate and quickly disintegrate when exposed to UV light, which has significantly limited their application thus far.” Helbich worked in association with a chemistry professor, Bernhard Rieger, who integrated the silicon nanosheets in a polymer, keeping them safe from oxidation and decay.

Silicon Nanosheets

Helbich further explains, “What makes our nanocomposite special is that it combines the positive properties of both of its components. he polymer matrix absorbs light in the UV domain, stabilizes the nanosheets and gives the material the properties of the polymer, while at the same time maintaining the remarkable optoelectronic properties of the nanosheets.” its high flexibility and endurance against outer influencers also allowed the recently developed material quite amenable as an ideal polymer technology for all kinds of industrial processes. Thus, the real world application of these nanosheets is within your arm’s reach. These composites are highly suited to the applications that are related with nanoelectronics.