Center for Phononics and Thermal Energy Science, Institute for Advanced Study, School of Physics Science and Engineering,
Tongji University; ChinaEU Joint Lab for Nanophononics, Tongji University; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Special Artificial Microstructure Materials and Technology
The successful synthesis and unique properties of graphene attract extensive attentions in exploring two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), silicene, black phosphorus, and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), due to their promising applications in electronics, optoelectronics and clean energy. On the other hand, the heat dissipation and management have become crucial issues for limiting the device performances in the micro- and nano-electronics industry. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art research progresses on the thermal transport properties of 2D materials from both theoretical and experimental investigations. Originated from their different crystal structures and bonding interactions, diverse thermal transport abilities are revealed in these materials. For example, the thermal conductivity can range from a superior high value (2500~5000 Wm-1K-1) in graphene to a lower value (9~30 Wm-1K-1) in black phosphorus. Moreover, some physical factors affecting thermal transport are also discussed, including the size effect, defects and doping effects, as well as the substrate effect. The thermal conductivity of 2D materials exhibits unique size dependence that is completely different from that of bulk materials,in addition, the large surface and vibration mode in 2D materials make it more sensitive to the external perturbations, such as defect, doping, and substrate. Finally, some functional applications of 2D materials are also summarized, such as heat dissipation, thermal rectification and thermoelectric application.