Synthesis and transfer of single-layer transition metal disulfides on diverse surfaces

Recently, monolayers of layered transition metal dichalcogenides (LTMD), such as MX₂ (M = Mo, W and X = S, Se), have been reported to exhibit significant spin-valley coupling and optoelectronic performances because of the unique structural symmetry and band structures. Monolayers in this class of materials offered a burgeoning field in fundamental physics, energy harvesting, electronics, and optoelectronics. However, most studies to date are hindered by great challenges on the synthesis and transfer of high-quality LTMD monolayers. Hence, a feasible synthetic process to overcome the challenges is essential. Here, we demonstrate the growth of high-quality MS₂ (M = Mo, W) monolayers using ambient-pressure chemical vapor deposition (APCVD) with the seeding of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid tetrapotassium salt (PTAS). The growth of a MS₂ monolayer is achieved on various surfaces with a significant flexibility to surface corrugation. Electronic transport and optical performances of the as-grown MS₂ monolayers are comparable to those of exfoliated MS₂ monolayers. We also demonstrate a robust technique in transferring the MS₂ monolayer samples to diverse surfaces, which may stimulate the progress on the class of materials and open a new route toward the synthesis of various novel hybrid structures with LTMD monolayer and functional materials. © 2013 American Chemical Society.