At the atomic-cluster scale, pure boron is markedly similar to carbon, forming simple planar molecules and cage-like fullerenes. Theoretical studies predict that two-dimensional (2D) boron sheets will adopt an atomic configuration similar to that of boron atomic clusters. We synthesized atomically thin, crystalline 2D boron sheets (i.e., borophene) on silver surfaces under ultrahigh-vacuum conditions. Atomic-scale characterization, supported by theoretical calculations, revealed structures reminiscent of fused boron clusters with multiple scales of anisotropic, out-of-plane buckling. Unlike bulk boron allotropes, borophene shows metallic characteristics that are consistent with predictions of a highly anisotropic, 2D metal.

Science 18 December 2015:
Vol. 350 no. 6267 pp. 1513-1516
DOI: 10.1126/science.aad1080

http://www.sciencemag.org/content/350/6267/1513.abstract

在原子水平上，硼原子与碳原子性质十分接近，都可以形成平面分子和球状分子。理论预测表面，二维（2D）硼薄膜将具有与硼原子团相类似的原子构型。 Mannix 等人在超高压的条件下，在银表面上合成了原子级厚度的、晶状2D硼薄膜。理论计算与实验表征，这种类似于石墨烯的薄膜结构是弯曲的，并且展示出金属的特性。（新材料在线）

中文报道（硼烯（borophene），二维材料新成员）：http://www.x-mol.com/news/1618