Fabrication and Characterization of Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides for Applications in Nano Devices and Spintronics

Transition metal dichalcogenides in two-dimensional form (2D TMDCs) are unique due to the direct bandgap in the monolayer structure, strong spin-orbit coupling, brilliant mechanical and electronic properties. These materials are studied for fundamental interest but are increasingly finding applications in optoelectronics, flexible electronics, spintronics, energy harvesting, sequencing of DNA, and custom-made medicines. Due to its fascinating properties, MoS2 is the most explored material among the 2D family. These materials are considered promising candidates to overcome the limitations of zero-bandgap graphene and can be a potential material for next-generation electronics. In this chapter, we discuss the magnetic and optical properties of 2D-TMDCs. In addition, a brief discussion on various methods (mechanical exfoliation, physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, pulsed laser deposition) used for low-dimensional deposition and synthesis of TMDCs is included. The use of TMDCs in nanodevices and spintronics along with approaches to improve charge carrier mobility and various challenges associated with them are explained. Finally, we explain the interplay of 2D physics, semiconducting properties, and magnetism in TMDCs for their application in spintronics.