Ultrathin\nBlack Phosphorus Nanosheets for Efficient\nSinglet Oxygen Generation

Abstract

Benefiting from its strong oxidizing\nproperties, the singlet oxygen\nhas garnered serious attentions in physical, chemical, as well as\nbiological studies. However, the photosensitizers for the generation\nof singlet oxygen bear in low quantum yields, lack of long wavelength\nabsorption band, poor biocompatibility, undegradable in living tissues,\nand so on. Here we first demonstrate the exfoliated black phosphorus\nnanosheets to be effective photosensitizers for the generation of\nsinglet oxygen with a high quantum yield of about 0.91, rendering\ntheir attractive applications in catalysis and photodynamic therapy.\nThrough in vitro and in vivo studies, the water dispersible black\nphosphorus nanosheets show notable cancer therapy ability. In addition,\nthe photodegradable character of black phosphorus from element to\nbiocompatible phosphorus oxides further highlights its therapeutic\npotential against cancer. This study will not only expand the breadth\nof study in black phosphorus but also offer an efficient catalyst\nand photodynamic therapy agent.