Novel two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides created by epitaxial growth

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have been a very important field in condensed matter physics, materials science, chemistry, and electronics. In a variety of 2D materials, transition metal chalcogenides are of particular interest due to their unique structures and rich properties. In this review, we introduce a series of 2D transition metal chalcogenides prepared by epitaxial growth. We show that not only 2D transition metal dichalcogenides can be grown, but also the transition metal chalcogenides that do not have bulk counterparts, and even patterned transition metal chalcogenides can be fabricated. We discuss the formation mechanisms of the novel structures, their interesting properties, and potential applications of these 2D transition metal chalcogenides. Finally, we give a summary and some perspectives on future studies.