Two-dimensional (2D) transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) exhibit unique electrical, optical, thermal, and mechanical properties, which enable them to be used as building blocks in compact and lightweight integrated electronic systems. The controllable and reliable synthesis of atomically thin TMDCs is essential for their practical application. Recent progress in large-area synthesis of monolayer TMDCs paves the way for practical production of various 2D TMDC layers. The intrinsic optical and electrical properties of monolayer TMDCs can be defined by stoichiometry during synthesis. By manipulating the lattice structure or layer stacking manner, it is possible to create atomically thin van der Waals materials with unique and unexplored physical properties. In this article, we review recent developments in the synthesis of TMDC monolayers, alloys, and heterostructures, which shine light on the design of novel TMDCs with desired functional properties.

This article reviews the potential of graphene and related two-dimensional (2D) materials for applications in micro- and nanoelectronics. In addition to graphene, special emphasis is placed on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). First, we discuss potential solutions for application-scale material growth, in particular chemical vapor deposition. We describe challenges for electrical contacts and dielectric interfaces with 2D materials. The device-related sections in this review first weigh the pros and cons of semi-metal graphene as a field-effect transistor (FET) channel material for logic and radio frequency applications. This is followed by an introduction to alternate graphene switch concepts that utilize the particular properties of the material, namely tunnel FETs, vertical devices, and bilayer pseudospin FETs. The final section is dedicated to semiconducting TMDs and their integration in FETs using the examples of n-type molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and p-type tungsten diselenide (WSe2).