All-liquid phase JANUS BIdimensional materials for functional nano-architectures and assemblies

Project Information

JANUS BI

Grant agreement ID: 101041229

DOI

10.3030/101041229

EC signature date 23 July 2022

Start date 1 November 2022

End date 31 October 2028

Funded under

• European Research Council (ERC)

Total cost

€ 1 500 000,00

EU contribution

€ 1 500 000,00

Coordinated by

POLITECNICO DI TORINO
Italy

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - JANUS BI (All-liquid phase JANUS BIdimensional materials for functional nano-architectures and assemblies)

Reporting period: 2022-11-01 to 2025-04-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The JANUS BI project operates at the cutting edge of nanochemistry, aiming to revolutionize the synthesis and application of 2D Janus materials—nanosheets, functionalized asymmetrically on opposite faces. These materials represent a groundbreaking advance in nanotechnology, combining structural and functional precision to address critical challenges in functional material design.The project addresses a significant limitation in current methods: the scalable, liquid-phase production of Janus 2D materials. While existing techniques often rely on solid-state methods with limited versatility, JANUS BI pioneers a novel exfoliation-functionalization-exfoliation-functionalization (EFEF) approach. This modular, all-liquid-phase method not only enables large-scale production but also introduces precise asymmetric functionalities tailored to drive targeted applications, such as light-energy conversion and catalysis.
The motivation stems from the potential of these materials to mimic and enhance natural processes. Inspired by the asymmetric architecture of biological membranes, the project seeks to establish functional systems capable of directional charge and energy transfer, with implications for photovoltaics, photocatalysis and artificial photosynthesis. By integrating Janus 2D materials into hierarchical assemblies and solid-state architectures, the project aims to develop smart materials that align with the increasing demand for sustainable energy.
The expected impact of JANUS BI extends beyond energy applications, offering transformative advancements for a variety of fields, including optoelectronics, sensors, and environmental technologies. The ability to fine-tune functionalities at the nanoscale opens up unprecedented opportunities for creating materials with tailored properties, bridging the gap between theoretical designs and practical applications. Additionally, the project’s multidisciplinary nature will provide training and development opportunities for young researchers, fostering a new generation of scientists equipped to tackle pressing global challenges. By establishing scalable, efficient protocols for creating Janus 2D materials, JANUS BI aims to set new benchmarks in material design, creating ripple effects across academic and industrial domains.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The JANUS BI project has made significant technical and scientific advancements during its initial period, achieving key milestones across its objectives.
In Objective 1, the development of a scalable protocol for Janus 2D materials, the team successfully synthesized a library of functionalizing agents, including polymers, inorganic nanocrystals, and carbon dots, designed to selectively adhere to specific faces of 2D materials. The exfoliation of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) such as MoS2 was optimized using both mechanical and chemical approaches, leading to the production of the 1T-phase, a highly conductive variant, via pre-treatment with n-butyllithium. The first fully asymmetric decoration was achieved for a BiOBr/MoS2 heterostructure, with experimental and theoretical analyses confirming a preferential alignment of layers. Advanced characterization methods such as high-resolution TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and photoelectrochemistry and X-ray diffraction were instrumental in validating the structural and functional properties of these heterostructures. Stability in solution-processed inks was achieved enabling high throughput ultrasonic spray coating (see below).
Objective 2 saw progress in processing and assembling Janus 2D materials into solid-state structures, with a focus on thin-film deposition and the development of porous architectures. Using ultrasonic spray-coating, the team demonstrated precise control over film thickness and homogeneity. Preliminary studies also explored the integration of symmetric MoS2 nanosheets into hydrogel matrices to investigate hierarchical structures. These efforts provide foundational insights for fabricating functional interfaces tailored for light-energy conversion.
In Objective 3, the project advanced functionality testing of Janus 2D heterostructures for light-conversion and catalytic applications. The BiOBr/MoS2 junction, classified as a type-II heterojunction, exhibited efficient photo-induced charge transfer, supported by photoluminescence quenching and bandgap reduction. Early testing of photo(electro)catalytic systems demonstrated promising activity in hydrogen evolution reactions, with results documented in two publications. Additional work is underway to study hybrids of MoS2 with CuO and AgBiS2, expanding the library of functional materials.
Overall, these activities establish JANUS BI as a frontrunner in the development of asymmetrically functionalized 2D materials, highlighting their potential for energy conversion technologies and other advanced applications. The outcomes lay a robust foundation for further exploration and scalability, driving innovation in nanochemistry and materials science.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The JANUS BI project has generated significant results with transformative potential across energy conversion, nanochemistry, and material design. Key breakthroughs include the development of scalable protocols for liquid-phase exfoliation and asymmetric functionalization of 2D materials, such as the BiOBr/MoS2 heterostructure, which demonstrated efficient charge transfer in photoelectrochemical processes. These achievements pave the way for advanced light-conversion applications, such as photovoltaics and hydrogen evolution reactions, while expanding the library of Janus 2D materials. Early exploration into hierarchical assembly, such as thin films and porous structures, highlights potential pathways for their integration into real-world devices.
The project’s impacts extend beyond academic research. The innovative methodologies developed provide a platform for the sustainable production of nanomaterials, fostering interdisciplinary advancements in optoelectronics, energy storage, and catalysis. A serendipitous discovery of piezoresistive hydrogels incorporating MoS2 further showcases commercial potential in sensor technologies, supported by a patent application. These advancements align with global goals for green energy and sustainable technologies.
To ensure further uptake and success, several key needs must be addressed. Continued research is essential to expand the range of Janus 2D materials and refine their integration into functional devices. Demonstration projects showcasing scalable manufacturing and real-world performance could attract industry attention. Access to markets and financial support will be crucial for scaling production and commercializing innovations. Strong intellectual property management, including patents for novel materials and processes, will protect the project’s competitive edge. Collaboration with regulatory bodies can help establish standards for nanomaterial production, ensuring safety and compatibility with existing technologies. Finally, international partnerships could accelerate global adoption and drive innovation by connecting research with industrial applications.
JANUS BI represents a critical step toward addressing societal challenges in renewable energy and advanced materials, offering scalable solutions with wide-ranging applications.