Two-dimensional material-based sensors: opportunities and outlook

The rapid development of electronics for wearables and internet of things have pushed forward the need for all types of sensors to detect chemical exposure, physiological conditions, and other environmental factors. In sensor platforms, graphene and other 2D materials have become an increasingly interesting candidate due to their multifunctional and tunable properties. Namely, the mechanical strength and flexibility at the ultimate materials scaling limit, unique transport characteristics, tunable optical properties, controllable surface sites and the potential for facile device fabrication in contrast to 1D and 3D counterparts have captivated researchers and engineers alike. In this talk, opportunities for 2D materials in chemical detection platforms are discussed including novel laser-manufacturing approaches, utilizing optical sensing as a means to chemically “fingerprint” analytes of interest, and impedance-based approaches that enable record ultrasensitive liquid processed 2D materials. Additionally, a perspective on future selectivity strategies is discussed that enable both liquid and gaseous species to be detected with precise identification.