Atomically thin boron nitride (BN) is an important two-dimensional (2D)
nanomaterial, with many properties distinct from graphene. In this feature
article, these unique properties and associated applications often not possible
from graphene are outlined. The article starts with characterization and
identification of atomically thin BN. It is followed by demonstrating their
strong oxidation resistance at high temperatures and applications in protecting
metals from oxidation and corrosion. As flat insulators, BN nanosheets are
ideal dielectric substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and
electronic devices based on 2D heterostructures. The light emission of BN
nanosheets in the deep ultraviolet (DUV) and ultraviolet (UV) regions are also
included for its scientific and technological importance. The last part is
dedicated to synthesis, characterization, and optical properties of BN
nanoribbons, a special form of nanosheets