Innovations in self-powered nano-photonics of emerging and flexible two-dimensional materials

Nanoscale photonics of atomically thin layered two-dimensional (2D) materials and their integrations have been comprehensively investigated owing to their unique electronic, mechanical, and optical properties. The prospective selection of emerging 2D materials and their van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) enable it to be an auspicious approach for a variety of self-driving optoelectronics. However, self-powered photodetectors (SPPDs) manifested by 2D materials MXene and perovskite have drawn considerable attention due to their massive potential for energy-efficient and cost-effective devices. In this review, to begin with, we summarized the recent innovations of SPPD architectures based on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), MXene and perovskite materials. The unique configuration of SPPDs is classified into various categories of a single material, homojunction, heterojunction, Schottky junction, and flexibility. In addition, the working principles of SPPD and their performance metrics such as detectivity, responsivity, noise equivalent power and their outstanding applications for the modern era have been demonstrated. To conclude we focused on the numerous challenges and future perspectives of this rapidly evolving research area. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent innovations in self-powered SPPDs made from novel materials, contributing to the diversity of the nano-photonic industry.