A variety of methods exist to deposit atomically-thin (two-dimensional) crystals. But large-scale deposition has remained a challenge.

However a recent RMIT-led study has found success with a new technique with potential to open new doors for two-dimensional semiconductors.

The discovery has been described as a ‘once-in-a-decade’ advance.

The new technique introduces room-temperature liquid metals (gallium-based) as a successful reaction environment for the synthesis of desirable, atomically-thin oxides that were unattainable using prior methods.

It’s a process so cheap and simple that it could be done on a kitchen stove by a non-scientist.

“I could give these instructions to my mum, and she would be able to do this at home,” study author Torben Daeneke said.