| dc.description.abstract | Transformative innovations in nanotechnology have led to the integration of two-dimensional (2D) materials into a diverse range of technologies, including but not limited to photovoltaics, transistors, reinforced composites, and biosensors. The development of these advanced materials holds immense promise, with extensive work dedicated to their synthesis, optoelectronic characterisations, and environmental applications. This thesis begins by investigating the optoelectronic properties of novel 2D perovskites, a family of crystalline materials characterised by the structure ABX3, highlighting their promising applications in sensing and high-resolution imaging technologies. Subsequently, the research delves into the development of more eco-friendly and scalable lead-free perovskites, which exhibit exceptional performance as photodetectors. Building on the demonstrated efficiency of these innovative materials, the direction shifts towards prioritising the use of renewable resources and the development of biodegradable, self-powered technologies. This includes the introduction of bio-sourced beeswax designed for a simple yet high-performing encapsulation method, aimed at improving the stability of these sensitive 2D materials. The encapsulation enables the otherwise deteriorating perovskites to survive submerged underwater for an extended period and withstand highly corrosive liquids. This biodegradable beeswax was further applied to develop self-sensing graphene-based textile triboelectric nanogenerators. The dynamic molecular interactions and the hydrophobic nature of beeswax provide intrinsic thermal healing, water-repellent, and self-cleaning properties, ensuring functionality under bending and humid environments. The fabricated devices operate as flexible, lightweight, self-powered sensors for low-frequency wearable applications and can also function as energy harvesters for environmental noise and vibrations. These innovations represent a stepping stone in reducing the technological environmental impact by leveraging on natural raw materials as active element for energy harvesting, paving the way to a sustainable technological development by mankind. | en_GB |
