The Rise Of Xene Hybrids.

Xenes, comprising mono-elemental atomic sheets, exhibit Dirac or Dirac-like quantum behaviour. When interfaced with other two-dimensional (2D) materials like hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), and metal carbides/nitrides/carbonitrides (MXenes), they demonstrate synergistic physical and chemical characteristics not accessible in individual components. The strategic hybridization of Xenes with specific functional 2D materials enables the attainment of unique physicochemical properties, including structural stability, desirable bandgap, efficient charge carrier injection, flexibility/breaking stress, thermal conductivity, chemical reactivity, catalytic efficiency, molecular adsorption, and wettability. For example, hBN acts as an anti-oxidative shield, MoS 2 injects electrons upon laser excitation, and MXene provides mechanical flexibility. Beyond precise compositional modulations, stacking sequences, and inter-layer coupling controlled by parameters, achieving scalability and reproducibility in hybridization is crucial for implementing these quantum materials in consumer applications. However, realizing the full potential of these hybrid materials faces challenges such as air gaps, uneven interfaces, and the formation of defects and functional groups. Advanced synthesis techniques, a deep understanding of quantum behaviours, precise control over interfacial interactions, and awareness of cross-correlations among these factors are essential. Xene-based hybrids show immense promise for groundbreaking applications in quantum computing, flexible electronics, energy storage, and catalysis. In this timely perspective, we highlight recent discoveries of novel Xenes and their hybrids, emphasizing correlations between synthetic parameters, structure, properties, and applications. We anticipate that these insights will revolutionize diverse industries and technologies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.