Covalently Functionalized MoS₂ with Dithiolenes

Advances are required to develop functionalization routes for MoS₂, in both the metallic 1T and semiconducting 2H phase, that will not only enable their easier manipulation and handling in liquid media but also enhance their applicability in diverse technological fields. Herein, we report an original functionalization methodology for covalently incorporating dithiolene units at the periphery of exfoliated 1T- and 2H-MoS₂ sheets, by employing a bis­(thiolate) salt as a ligand in a green and facile protocol. Extensive characterization of the covalently functionalized materials is presented, along with a pathway for the à la carte chemical manipulation of MoS₂. Markedly, the reported methodology may be applied for modifying other transition metal dichalcogenides.