Low-dimensional group IV–VII transition metal polychalcogenides and chemical aspects of their applications

This review analyzes literature on polymeric transition metal polychalcogenides of group IV–VII (TiS₃, VS₄, NbSe₃, MoS_x, ReS₄, etc.). It covers the peculiarities of the structures of crystalline compounds and the proposed structure models of amorphous phases. The latest advances in the synthesis of these low-dimensional materials on the nanoscale are presented. Their chemical properties are discussed, in particular, those associated with their dichalcogenide bonds. It is emphasized that the properties of the S–S (or Se–Se) groups largely determine the distinctive features of polychalcogenides and the unusual phenomena observed in them. Thus, these groups play an important role in the performance of electrode materials in metal-ion batteries, photo- and electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction, and mercury vapor sorbents based on transition metal polychalcogenides. Bibliography — 304 references.