Recent advances in synthesis and modulation of 2D heterostructures for sensing and detection applications

Two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures are anticipated to be potential candidates for advanced sensors, detectors, and various electronic applications due to their unique nanoscale interfaces and synergetic functionalities. Sensors (physical or chemical), detectors, and electronics play a leading role in performance and impact monitoring, medicine and health care, imaging, and optical communication. Due to their ultra-thin flat surface, high surface-to-volume ratio, and distinct physiochemical properties, 2D heterostructures can ultimately enhance the efficiency of such devices, but the utilization of these materials without modulation limits their potential in various applications due to complex material constraints such as fixed bandgap, limited tunability, poor charge carrier control, and inefficient interlayer coupling. There is a need to enhance the quality and performance of 2D heterointerfaces to make fine structures through synthetic modification and design engineering in sensing and detection technologies. In this context, the fabrication strategies of 2D heterostructures are explored, with modulation strategies aimed at optimizing functionalities for real-world sensing, detecting, and electronics applications, along with their technical limitations. This review emphasizes the role of modulated 2D heterostructures in sensor development, such as gas, chemical, biosensors, multiple detectors, and electronics, focusing on enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and response times. Challenges such as scalability, stability, and environmental resilience are discussed, aiming to pave the way for the practical integration of 2D heterostructures into next-generation electronic devices, sensing, and detection platforms across various industries.