Electrochemical sensing performance of two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride (2D h-BN) has traditionally been suppressed by their intrinsic electrical insulation and deficient electron transportation mechanism. However, the excellent electrocatalytic activity, high specific surface area, N- and B-active edges, structural defects, adjustable band gap through interaction with other nanomaterials, and chemical functionalization, makes 2D h-BN ideal for many sensing applications. Therefore, finding a pathway to modulate the electronic properties of 2D h-BN while the intrinsic characteristics are well preserved, will evolve a new generation of highly sensitive and selective electrochemical (bio)sensors. That is why extensive research has recently focused on the challenge to functionalize 2D h-BN by controlling the surface chemical reactions with external species, particularly metal nanoparticles. This review summarizes the most recent progress in the application of 2D h-BN nanosheets in electrochemical (bio)sensing. We will explore the fabrication techniques of 2D h-BN for electrochemical applications followed by thorough discussion on their advantages, shortcomings, and promising possibilities as (bio)sensing platforms in near future.
Ever-increasing significance of composite materials with high thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion coefficient and high optical bandgap over the last decade, have proved their indispensable roles in a wide range of applications. Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), a layered material having a high thermal conductivity along the planes and the band gap of 5.9 eV, has always been a promising candidate to provide superior heat transfer with minimal phonon scattering through the system. Hence, extensive researches have been devoted to improving the thermal conductivity of different matrices by using h-BN fillers. Apart from that, lubrication property of h-BN has also been extensively researched, demonstrating the effectivity of this layered structure in reduction of friction coefficient, increasing wear resistance and cost-effectivity of the process. Herein, an in-depth discussion of thermal and tribological properties of the reinforced composite by h-BN will be provided, focusing on the recent progress and future trends.
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