Rare-earth nickelates RNiO₃: thin films and heterostructures

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Solid State Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics

Background:

• Rare-earth nickelates (RNiO3) exhibit complex phase diagrams and are crucial for understanding phase transitions in correlated oxides.
• Electron-lattice coupling significantly influences the physical properties of these materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in rare-earth nickelate heterostructures.
• To discuss methods for tuning and controlling the physical properties of RNiO3 through heterostructure engineering.
• To explore potential applications of these functional materials in future devices.

Main Methods:

• Focus on heterostructures: thin films, multilayers, and superlattices.
• Analysis of strain control, quantum confinement, and interface effects.
• Review of experimental and theoretical studies on RNiO3 properties.

Main Results:

• Heterostructures allow for precise modulation of RNiO3 physical properties.
• Strain, confinement, and interface engineering are key strategies for property control.
• Diverse physical properties, including electronic and magnetic, can be tailored.

Conclusions:

• Rare-earth nickelate heterostructures are highly tunable functional materials.
• These materials hold significant potential for next-generation electronic devices.
• Further research into interface phenomena and novel heterostructures is warranted.