Research on the effect of DES properties on the preparation of h-BN nanosheets by electrochemical-liquid phase exfoliation method

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) with a large specific surface area and unique optoelectronic properties has good application prospects in many fields. The liquid phase exfoliation method is considered the most promising method for achieving controllable preparation of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs), but the low-cost, relatively environmentally friendly and efficient liquid phase exfoliation is still difficult to achieve. Choosing a suitable solvent system is the key to achieving efficient exfoliation. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have the advantages of simple synthesis, low cost, high thermal and chemical stability and strong biocompatibility and are expected to be green solvents for preparation of BNNSs . In this paper, it was found that the properties of DESs and its interaction with h-BN had a significant impact on the electrochemical exfoliation of h-BN. The intercalation effect of DES and the compatibility between DES and h-BN were the main factors affecting the yield, while the quality of BNNSs mainly depended on the decomposition and expansion effect of DES. This rule also can be applied to prepare highly conductive and hydrophilic two-dimensional material Ti-MXene. This research explores the structure–activity relationship between two-dimensional materials and DESs, and provides a theoretical basis for the environmentally friendly and efficient preparation of two-dimensional materials using DESs as exfoliation solvents.