Low-dimensional inorganics refer to non-carbon composites that stably exist in lower dimensions below 3D bulk forms. Representatives are typically found within 0D clusters, 1D nanowires, and 2D slabs. Different from the prototypical organic counterparts of graphene, carbon nanotubes, or fullerene, these inorganics are rich in composition and elemental combinations, variable in heterojunctional permutations, and capable of site or doped activations. Thanks to their structural and compositional merits, these low-dimensional materials show distinct catalytic, magnetic, electronic, optical, and biomedical properties. Indeed, they have been at the forefront of research trends in nanomaterials, atmospheric science, electronics, and even medicine designs.
Compared to the large body of work focusing on design and engineering, the physical attributes that drive these materials’ uniqueness have barely been studied. In contrast to well-established atomic and crystallized systems, boundary conditions under low dimensionality introduce new confinements and requirements during parameterization into physical models. Topological influences also play a role in the properties of low-dimensional inorganics. Are these factors detrimental or beneficial for material functionality? Do they follow conventional quantum mechanical gauges? And can they be employed to benefit materials design and functionality? It is evident that a general procedure or approach as a roadmap is necessary.
As such, this Research Topic is focused on utilizing our physical understanding of low-dimensional materials design, revealing new physical phenomena in reduced spaces, and proposing novel physical mechanisms suitable for low dimensionality but also applicable to the general materials levels. We especially encourage interdisciplinary research covering several physical sciences, topic briefs or mini reviews centered on physical levels in order to inspire new materials designs, and perspectives that highlight materials research and physical progress in reduced dimensions.
Low-dimensional inorganics refer to non-carbon composites that stably exist in lower dimensions below 3D bulk forms. Representatives are typically found within 0D clusters, 1D nanowires, and 2D slabs. Different from the prototypical organic counterparts of graphene, carbon nanotubes, or fullerene, these inorganics are rich in composition and elemental combinations, variable in heterojunctional permutations, and capable of site or doped activations. Thanks to their structural and compositional merits, these low-dimensional materials show distinct catalytic, magnetic, electronic, optical, and biomedical properties. Indeed, they have been at the forefront of research trends in nanomaterials, atmospheric science, electronics, and even medicine designs.
Compared to the large body of work focusing on design and engineering, the physical attributes that drive these materials’ uniqueness have barely been studied. In contrast to well-established atomic and crystallized systems, boundary conditions under low dimensionality introduce new confinements and requirements during parameterization into physical models. Topological influences also play a role in the properties of low-dimensional inorganics. Are these factors detrimental or beneficial for material functionality? Do they follow conventional quantum mechanical gauges? And can they be employed to benefit materials design and functionality? It is evident that a general procedure or approach as a roadmap is necessary.
As such, this Research Topic is focused on utilizing our physical understanding of low-dimensional materials design, revealing new physical phenomena in reduced spaces, and proposing novel physical mechanisms suitable for low dimensionality but also applicable to the general materials levels. We especially encourage interdisciplinary research covering several physical sciences, topic briefs or mini reviews centered on physical levels in order to inspire new materials designs, and perspectives that highlight materials research and physical progress in reduced dimensions.
