Anisotropy of two-dimensional ReS2 and advances in its device application

Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have attracted growing interest regarding their potential applications in next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices. Owing to their atomic thickness and tunable bandgap, they exhibit unique mechanical, electrical, and optical properties. As a specific member of the TMDC family, rhenium disulfide (ReS 2 ) has stimulated intensive interest due to its anisotropic crystal structure, weak inter-layer coupling, and anisotropic electrical and optical properties. In this review, we summarize the distinct crystal structure and intrinsic anisotropic properties of ReS 2 , followed by an introduction to its synthesis methods. The current applications of ReS 2 and its heterojunctions are presented based on its anisotropic properties. This review not only provides a timely summary of the current applications of ReS 2 and its heterojunctions, but also inspires new approaches to develop other innovative devices based on 2D materials with a low lattice symmetry. Graphical abstract