Recent development of two-dimensional tantalum dichalcogenides and their applications

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) have piqued the curiosity of both scientists and engineers, and substantial study has resulted in significant advancements in the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of these 2D materials. Among these, tantalum-based TMDs are gaining increasing attention because of strong Coloumb and electron-lattice interactions. Moreover, the coexistence of charge density waves and the superconducting phase make these materials of particular interest. In this review, we highlight the unique structural properties of 2D tantalum dichalcogenides in different phases (1T, 1T’, and 2H), as well as how these phases influence their electronic, magnetic, layer-dependent, and optical properties. A review of the phase transition mechanisms will be presented, along with an outline of the strategies for the growth of 2D TaX2 (X = S, Se, and Te) systems. The most recent advancements in 2D TaX2 applications will be presented, ranging from high-sensing and field emission applications to energy storage, fuel cells, photocatalysis, and solar cell applications. Furthermore, this review discusses the issues and future development possibilities for TaX2-based systems and may provide some guidance for improving the performance of TaX2-based systems for sensing, energy storage and conversion, and field emission applications. We draw a conclusion to our review by outlining the difficulties in using TaX2 based systems and predicting future trends in development with a perspective of the advancements required to advance this fascinating field.