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Domino-like stacking order switching in twisted monolayer-multilayer graphene
Shuai Zhang1,2, Qiang Xu2, Yuan Hou3
1AML, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
Nature Materials
|April 22, 2022
Summary
Atomic reconstruction in twisted graphene exhibits two stable states. These states can be switched reversibly, offering new ways to control van der Waals heterostructures.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Atomic reconstruction is common in twisted 2D van der Waals structures.
- This phenomenon leads to unique electronic and magnetic properties.
- Typically, atomic reconstruction results in a single stable state.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the existence of multiple metastable reconstruction states in twisted graphene.
- To explore the switching behavior and propagation mechanisms of these states.
- To understand the role of strain solitons in bistable reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- Conductive atomic force microscopy (c-AFM) for imaging.
- Lattice-resolved c-AFM for detailed structural analysis.
- Atomistic simulations for mechanistic understanding.
Main Results:
- Identified two distinct metastable atomic reconstruction states in twisted graphene.
- Demonstrated reversible switching between these states.
- Observed spontaneous, domino-like propagation of the switching via strain solitons.
Conclusions:
- Bistable reconstruction states in twisted graphene are critical for understanding their properties.
- The switching mechanism provides a method for manipulating stacking orders.
- Strong mechanical coupling among solitons drives the propagation of switching.
