Phosphorene – The two-dimensional black phosphorous: Properties, synthesis and applications

Highlights: • Reviews recent progress in phosphorene research, a new 2D material. • Anisotropic properties are reviewed and compared with other 2D materials. • Synthesis methods of black phosphorus and phosphorene are discussed. • Prospective applications inspired from the intrinsic properties are also discussed. • Challenges and future scope for this promising material is included. - Abstract: Black phosphorus (BP) is known to human beings for almost a century. It started receiving more attention of scientists and researchers worldwide in last three years, with its ability to exist in two-dimensional (2D) form, popularly known as phosphorene. In the post-graphene-discovery period, phosphorene is probably receiving most attention, owing to its excellent properties and hence, high potential for practical applications in the field of electronics, energy and infrastructure. In this article, attractive properties of phosphorene, which makes it unique and comparable with graphene or transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), are highlighted. As the question of its environmental instability remains critical, a comprehensive overview of synthesis methods of phosphorene and black phosphorus are presented, to inspire in-situ methods of phosphorene synthesis and fabrication towards improving further investigation into this wonder material. In addition, the article also focuses on opportunities in nano-electronics, optoelectronics, energy conversion/storage, sensors etc arising from phosphorene's remarkable properties.