Recent advances in the photothermal applications of two-dimensional nanomaterials: photothermal therapy and beyond

Abstract

Photothermal conversion, as a rapid and effective form of energy conversion, has become increasingly attractive in recent years. Among various photothermal agents, two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials tend to become mainstream due to their higher photothermal conversion efficiency empowered by excellent in-plane electron mobility. And their good biocompatibility enables their prosperous applications in photothermal therapy and usually with satisfactory therapeutic effects. In addition, along with the development of more 2D nanomaterials, their photothermal conversions derive many more applications in cutting-edge fields. In this review, we briefly discuss the photothermal applications of 2D nanomaterials including photothermal therapy, water evaporation, thermochemical reactions, electrostatic lithography, catalysis, light-driven actuation, photothermal electrodes, energy storage, wearable heaters and wound healing, which can provide valuable information and insights for future research on photothermal conversion and 2D nanomaterials.