Embodiments disclosed herein include an integrated circuit structure. In an embodiment, the integrated circuit structure comprises an interlayer dielectric (ILD), and an opening in the ILD. In an embodiment, a first layer lines the opening, and a second layer lines the first layer. In an embodiment, the second layer comprises a semi-metal or transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD). The integrated circuit structure may further comprise a third layer over the second layer.