Atomic moirés’ crystallographic structure under the microscope

When it comes to atomic moirés, appearances can be deceiving. The wavy patterns are caused by the vertical movement of atoms and interference from electronic waves in the crystals. Researchers from Institut Néel, the CEA, and Grenoble-Alpes University joined forces to show that the moirés, when viewed using a scanning tunneling microscope, did not show their actual periodicity. The researchers applied a mathematical method (Fourier transform) to the images obtained and discovered much greater and more complex periodicity, one that is closer to reality.

The researchers used the tool to inventory the possible moirés on graphene deposited on different substrates. The advance will help better determine the crystallographic structure—and, therefore, the electronic properties—of stacked two-dimensional materials.

Contact: claude.chapelier@cea.fr

Facebook

Twitter