We
provide a perspective on a series of materials that we have termed
tetrahedral transition metal chalcogenides (TTMCs), which have a common
layered structural motif that could carry novel functionalities on
account of the d-orbital filling. While strong covalent
bonding predominates within the TTMC layers, the layers themselves
can be held together by van der Waals interactions, Coulombic forces,
or even hydrogen bonding. Although similar to transition metal dichalcogenides
(TMDs) in some respects, TTMCs have been less explored in their synthesis
and materials properties. Unlike TMDs where the transition metal is
typically tetravalent and in a 6-coordinate environment, TTMCs contain
the transition metal in a tetrahedral environment and in a low valent
state of I or II. Structurally, TTMCs crystallize in tetragonal or
orthorhombic structures on account of the square lattice formed by
the transition metal centers. We present their electronic structure
and resulting properties, including superconductivity, metallic conductivity,
and itinerant ferromagnetism. We briefly discuss their synthesis and
the intercalation chemistry that can be performed to form new phases.
Like TMDs, they also offer the tantalizing opportunity to be manipulated
toward the formation of two-dimensional (2D) structures. Finally,
we provide a future outlook on their development and the possibility
that they could be integrated with other 2D materials to form novel
heterostructures.