Plasmonics is a technologically advanced term in condensed matter physics that describes surface plasmon resonance where surface plasmons are collective electron oscillations confined at the dielectric-metal interface and these collective excitations exhibit profound plasmonic properties in conjunction with light interaction. Surface plasmons are based on nanomaterials and their structures; therefore, semiconductors, metals, and two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials exhibit distinct plasmonic effects due to unique confinements. Recent technical breakthroughs in characterization and material manufacturing of two-dimensional ultra-thin materials have piqued the interest of the materials industry because of their extraordinary plasmonic enhanced characteristics. The 2D plasmonic materials have great potential for photonic and optoelectronic device applications owing to their ultra-thin and strong light-emission characteristics, such as; photovoltaics, transparent electrodes, and photodetectors. Also, the light-driven reactions of 2D plasmonic materials are environmentally benign and climate-friendly for future energy generations which makes them extremely appealing for energy applications. This chapter is aimed to cover recent advances in plasmonic 2D materials (graphene, graphene oxides, hexagonal boron nitride, pnictogens, MXenes, metal oxides, and non-metals) as well as their potential for applied applications, and is divided into several sections to elaborate recent theoretical and experimental developments along with potential in photonics and energy storage industries.
Two-dimensional photonic crystals increasing vertical light emission from Si nanocrystal-rich thin layers