Fundamental and Technical Advances in Bulk Photovoltaics of 2D van der Waals Materials

Abstract

2D van der Waals (vdW) materials with exceptional electronic and optical properties have emerged as a hotspot of materials science research. Over the last few years, substantial growth has been observed in the engineering of these materials for the bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE). BPVE is the conversion of electricity from light via an entirely distinct mechanism from the pn junction photovoltaic device. The ability of tunable crystal structure, maintaining clean interfaces, and the feasibility of easy creation of heterostructures and heterojunctions of 2D vdW materials allows for the manipulation of crystal symmetry, electronic polarization, light-matter interaction, and more, leading to the efficient engineering of BPVE. A critical discussion of the fundamentals of engineering the BPVE using different material systems and innovative strategies has been made based on the previous scientific reports. The key challenges that can hinder device efficiency are also covered. The potential for a next-generation, self-powered, energy-efficient, flexible, and lightweight device utilizing the BPVE of 2D vdW materials is highlighted in this article.