Borophene: challenges in stability and pathways to synthesis

Abstract

Borophene, an atomically thin boron sheet, is a promising 2D material due to its exceptional electronic, optical, and mechanical properties. Despite its potential, the inherent instability of borophene poses significant challenges for its synthesis and practical applications. This comprehensive review explores the stability issues and synthesis challenges of borophene. The structural diversity of borophene is investigated, examining how different lattice configurations and defects affect its stability. Various synthesis methods, including top-down exfoliation and bottom-up deposition, are reviewed, focusing on the role of substrates in stabilizing borophene layers. The potential of functionalization and doping strategies to enhance borophene's stability is also discussed. Advanced in situ imaging and spectroscopy techniques that provide insights into the dynamics and mechanisms of borophene synthesis are highlighted. This review compiles recent research findings to offer a thorough understanding of the factors influencing borophene stability and the innovative synthesis approaches being developed. Addressing these challenges aims to facilitate the advancement of borophene-based technologies, paving the way for their application in electronics, photonics, energy storage, and beyond.