Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2026

In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy with Biasing and Fabrication of Asymmetric Crossbars Based on Mixed-Phased a-VOx
Published on: May 13, 2020
Surface-stress-induced Mott transition and nature of associated spatial phase transition in single crystalline VO2
Jung Inn Sohn1, Heung Jin Joo, Docheon Ahn
1Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0FF, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
We demonstrate that the Mott metal-insulator transition (MIT) in single crystalline VO(2) nanowires is strongly mediated by surface stress as a consequence of the high surface area to volume ratio of individual nanowires. Further, we show that the stress-induced antiferromagnetic Mott insulating phase is critical in controlling the spatial extent and distribution of the insulating monoclinic and metallic rutile phases as well as the electrical characteristics of the Mott transition. This affords an understanding of the relationship between the structural phase transition and the Mott MIT.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Imperfections in Crystal Structure: Stoichiometric Point Defects
Imperfections in Crystal Structure: Non-Stoichiometric Defects
Phase Transitions: Sublimation and Deposition
Phase Transitions: Vaporization and Condensation
Crystal Field Theory - Octahedral Complexes
To explain the observed behavior of transition metal complexes (such as colors), a model involving electrostatic interactions between the electrons from the ligands and the electrons in the unhybridized d orbitals of the central metal atom has been developed. This electrostatic model is crystal field theory (CFT). It helps to understand, interpret, and predict the colors, magnetic behavior, and some structures of coordination compounds of transition metals.
CFT focuses on...
Phase Transitions: Melting and Freezing

