Progress and prospects of 2D VS2 transition metal dichalcogenides

The last two decades have been extremely aggressive towards exploring the materialistic properties and applicability of 2D Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) after the discovery of graphene in 2004. Among these TMDs, VS2 nanomaterials have recently caught attention due to their excellent structural, morphological, electronic, magnetic, and electrochemical properties, making them a promising candidate for various applications. Herein, we have systematically reviewed the progress of the VS2 nanomaterial studies based on their detailed structural and morphological characteristics, synthesis methods, and applications. We have focused on specific typical applications of VS2 nanomaterials such as catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), field emitters, electrodes for supercapacitors, and other electronic devices, etc., and discussed their corresponding synthesis methods and significant outcomes. The efficient magnetic properties tuning abilities of VS2 also provide possibilities for spintronic applications. We have concluded that tailoring the sandwiched layered structure by defect engineering, doping, etc., would further modify their electronic configuration and structural phases, enhancing their physical, chemical, and optical properties. Such tailoring would pave a path toward more comprehensive application possibilities with greater efficiency. With the achievement of a more precise semiconducting material structure, VS2 nanomaterials might become the most efficient TMD that can also be utilized in various photonic and optoelectronic applications.