Journal of Inorganic Materials

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Second-harmonic Generation in Stacking-engineered 2D Materials: Characterization and Modulation

XIA Fangfang1, HUANG Wenjuan2, ZHAI Tianyou1   

  1. 1. State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China;
    2. Hubei Key Laboratory of Optical Information and Pattern Recognition, School of Optical Information and Energy Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
  • Received:2025-12-19 Revised:2026-01-22
  • About author:XIA Fangfang (1986-), female, research associate. E-mail: xiafangfang@hust.edu.cn

Abstract: The interlayer stacking configurations play a pivotal role in defining the crystal symmetry and Coulomb interactions of two-dimensional (2D) materials, thereby enabling novel ordered states as well as emergent optical, electronic, and magnetic properties through strategic stacking engineering. These 2D material structures, characterized by remarkable second-order susceptibility, atomic-scale thinness, and ideal phase matching, herald new research frameworks in the realm of nonlinear optics. Second harmonic generation (SHG), an essential nonlinear optical phenomenon, offers precise characterization of the interlayer stacking parameters inherent in 2D materials. This paper presents a comprehensive review of SHG technology as applied to the stacking engineering of 2D materials, Centered on “stacking engineering”, this paper systematically integrates the dual applications of SHG technology in the characterization and performance modulation of stacked structures, with a focus on analyzing the regulatory mechanisms of key parameters such as homo/hetero-stacking and twist angles on SHG performance. Through detailed analysis, it highlights the various approaches by which SHG can be used to ascertain the number of layers, stacking order, as well as angular orientations in stacked 2D materials. Furthermore, the paper explores the mechanisms by which both homogeneous and heterogeneous stacking configurations modulate SHG performance, discussing in depth the modulation and enhancement effects induced by stacking engineering. Finally, this review provides a forward-looking perspective on the transformative potential of material diversification as well as cross-dimensional stacking in micro- and nano-device applications. By harnessing the potential of stacking engineering, researchers aim to uncover unprecedented optical and electronic characteristics in 2D materials, ultimately driving the evolution of nano-scale devices and technologies within both scientific research and industrial production domains, fostering significant advancements and novel developments.

Key words: 2D materials, stacking engineering, second harmonic generation, homogeneous and heterogeneous stacking, review

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