Defects in graphene-based heterostructures: topological and geometrical effects

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) atomic layer materials, like graphene (Gr), enable the creation of novel architectures through heterostructures.
• Heterostructures, including in-plane and van der Waals (vdW) types, combine materials to overcome individual limitations and gain new properties.
• Defects in these heterostructures, arising from vdW forces or covalent bonds, can lead to local deformation and stress, affecting material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of defects, such as vacancies and topological/geometrical variations, on the structure and mechanical response of graphene-based heterostructures.
• To discuss the coupling effects of various defects on graphene-based heterostructures across multiple physical fields.
• To enhance the understanding of defect mechanisms in low-dimensional materials for novel applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on defects in graphene-based heterostructures.
• Analysis of vacancy, topological, and geometrical defect effects.
• Discussion of multi-physics coupling effects of defects.

Main Results:

• Defects critically influence the structural integrity and mechanical behavior of graphene-based heterostructures.
• External and internal defects induce local stress and deformation, altering transport and mechanical properties.
• The interplay of different defects can lead to complex multi-physics phenomena.

Conclusions:

• The study and control of defects are paramount for harnessing the full potential of graphene-based heterostructures.
• Understanding defect mechanisms is key to designing and fabricating advanced 2D materials with desired functionalities.
• This review provides insights into defect engineering for novel applications in low-dimensional materials.