Straining nanomaterials to break their lattice symmetry is perhaps the most efficient approach toward realizing bandgap tunability.  A modulated inhomogeneous local asymmetric elastic–plastic straining is reported that utilizes GPalevel laser shocking at a high strain rate (dε/dt) ≈ 10⁶–10⁷ s⁻¹, with excellent formability, inducing tunable bandgaps in graphene, and nanoscale electro-optical property changes in many 2D materials and their heterostructures. 

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