The iChEM Prof. Yi Xie recently published a review paper on Chem. Soc. Rev. for a topic of “Atomically-thick two-dimensional crystals: electronic structure regulation and energy device construction”. This is the second review for Prof. Xie’s group to publish on the Chem. Soc. Rev. after the first review of “Recent advances in free-standing two-dimensional crystals with atomic thickness: design, assembly and transfer strategies” was published as a cover page on the Chem. Soc. Rev. in 2013.

In this review, they survey the recent progress in fine structure characterization by X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and also overview electronic structure modulation by density-functional calculations in the ultrathin two-dimensional crystals. In addition, they highlight their structure–property relationship, transparent and flexible device construction as well as wide applications in photoelectrochemical water splitting, photodetectors, thermoelectric conversion, touchless moisture sensing, supercapacitors and lithium ion batteries. Finally, they outline the major challenges and opportunities that face the atomically-thick two-dimensional crystals. It is anticipated that the present review will deepen people’s understanding of this field and hence contribute to guide the future design of high-efficiency energy-related devices. (Chem. Soc. Rev., 2014, 43, 530-546)