Multimodal hybrid 2D networks via the thiol-epoxide reaction on 1T/2H MoS2 polytypes

Abstract

Searching for new protocols aimed at the surface functionalization of TMDCs is the password for filling the gap between reactivity and versatility of 2D carbon-based networks and their inorganic counterparts. This contribution describes a straightforward but effective approach to the chemical decoration of chemically exfoliated MoS₂ nanosheets with β-hydroxyl organic pendant arms. The adopted strategy is based on the thiol-epoxide “click” reaction and generates functional hybrids with a loading of dangling organic groups directly proportional to the epoxide electrophilic character. Most importantly, this grafted methodology occurs for the first time on both phases (1T and 2H) of the model chalcogenide and provides functional samples suitable for an additional functionalization step-forward (post-derivatization).