Abstract Due to the unique properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials, much attention has been paid to the exploration and application of 2D materials. In this review, we focus on the application of 2D materials in mode-locked fiber lasers. We summarize the synthesis methods for 2D materials, fiber integration with 2D materials and 2D materials based saturable absorbers. We discuss the performance of the diverse mode-locked fiber lasers in the typical operating wavelength such as 1, 1.5, 2 and 3 μm. Finally, a summary and outlook of the further applications of the new materials in mode-locked fiber lasers are presented.

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