Showing 1–50 of 214 results for author: Liang, J

Exceptional Alkaline Methanol Electrooxidation on Bi-modified Pt3M Intermetallics: Kinetic Origins and an OH Binding Energy Descriptor

Authors: Lecheng Liang, Hengyu Li, Shao Ye, Peng Li, Kaiyang Xu, Jinhui Liang, Binwen Zeng, Bo Shen, Taisuke Ozaki, Zhiming Cui

Abstract: The exploration of advanced CO-free catalysts and clarifying the ambiguous kinetic origins and governing factors would undoubtedly open up opportunities to overcome the sluggish kinetics of methanol electrooxidation and promote the development of direct methanol fuel cells. Herein, we constructed a family of Bi-modified Pt3M intermetallic catalysts (Bi-Pt3M/C, M=Cr, Mn, Co, Zn, In, Ga, and Sn) tha… ▽ More The exploration of advanced CO-free catalysts and clarifying the ambiguous kinetic origins and governing factors would undoubtedly open up opportunities to overcome the sluggish kinetics of methanol electrooxidation and promote the development of direct methanol fuel cells. Herein, we constructed a family of Bi-modified Pt3M intermetallic catalysts (Bi-Pt3M/C, M=Cr, Mn, Co, Zn, In, Ga, and Sn) that follow CO-free dominated pathway and exhibit exceptional catalytic activity. More significantly, leveraging this platform, we have identified the pivotal factor governing the reaction kinetics in CO-free pathway, namely OH binding energy (OHBE). This arises because the rate-determining step (RDS) encompasses both C-H bond activation and water dissociation, whose respective barriers can be reflected by the OHBE. Accordingly, OHBE can act as an activity descriptor. Specifically, Bi-Pt3In/C stands out from other Bi-Pt3M/C and delivers the unprecedented mass activity of 36.7 A mgPt-1 at peak potential, far exceeding state-of-the-art Pt-based catalysts reported to date. Taking Bi-Pt3In/C as a proof of concept, we clearly elucidate the origin of enhanced MOR activity by combining theoretical calculations, kinetic isotope effects, and formaldehyde electrooxidation. Moreover, there exhibits a volcano-type trend between OHBE and the activity of Bi-Pt3M/C. Beyond the discovery of ultrahigh-performance catalysts, these findings provide a detailed mechanistic picture of RDS and offer an innovative design principle for advanced catalysts. △ Less

Submitted 12 December, 2025; originally announced December 2025.

Magnetic properties of molecular beam epitaxy-grown ultrathin Cr2Ge2Te6 films down to monolayer limit on Si substrates

Authors: Pengfei Ji, Ruixuan Liu, Tianchen Zhu, Jinxuan Liang, Yang Chen, Yitian Tong, Yunhe Bai, Zuhan Geng, Fangting Chen, Yunyi Zang, Xiyu Hong, Jiatong Zhang, Luyi Yang, Qi-Kun Xue, Ke He, Xiao Feng

Abstract: Cr2Ge2Te6, a prototypical van der Waals ferromagnetic semiconductor, have attracted significant interest for its potential applications in high-performance spintronics. However, the magnetic ground state of monolayer Cr2Ge2Te6 remains elusive due to fragile and irregular-shaped thin flake samples with weak magnetic signals. Here, we successfully grow uniform ferromagnetic Cr2Ge2Te6 films down to m… ▽ More Cr2Ge2Te6, a prototypical van der Waals ferromagnetic semiconductor, have attracted significant interest for its potential applications in high-performance spintronics. However, the magnetic ground state of monolayer Cr2Ge2Te6 remains elusive due to fragile and irregular-shaped thin flake samples with weak magnetic signals. Here, we successfully grow uniform ferromagnetic Cr2Ge2Te6 films down to monolayer by molecular beam epitaxy. By exploiting a self-limiting growth mode, we achieve synthesis of uniform monolayer Cr2Ge2Te6 films across entire millimeter-scale Si substrates. Through a combination of superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry and anomalous Hall effect measurements, we establish that monolayer Cr2Ge2Te6 exhibits intrinsic ferromagnetism with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy below ~10 K, albeit with strong magnetic fluctuations characteristic of its two-dimensional nature. Furthermore, a systematic thickness-dependent study reveals a crossover from this fluctuation-dominated two-dimensional magnetism turns into conventional long-range ferromagnetic order as the film thickness increases. Our work not only definitively establishes the intrinsic ferromagnetic ground state of monolayer Cr2Ge2Te6, but also provides a scalable, silicon-compatible route for preparing the two-dimensional magnet for future spintronic or quantum devices. △ Less

Submitted 10 December, 2025; originally announced December 2025.

Symmetry-driven giant magneto-optical Kerr effects in altermagnet hematite

Authors: Jiaxin Luo, Xiaodong Zhou, Jinxuan Liang, Ledong Wang, Qiuyun Zhou, Yong Jiang, Wenhong Wang, Yugui Yao, Luyi Yang, Wanjun Jiang

Abstract: Altermagnets have attracted tremendous interest for revealing intriguing physics and promising spintronics applications. In contrast to conventional antiferromagnets, altermagnets break both PT and Tt symmetries, and simultaneously exhibit spin-split band structures with a vanishing net magnetization. To quantify insulating altermagnets without conduction electron, we propose to use magneto-optica… ▽ More Altermagnets have attracted tremendous interest for revealing intriguing physics and promising spintronics applications. In contrast to conventional antiferromagnets, altermagnets break both PT and Tt symmetries, and simultaneously exhibit spin-split band structures with a vanishing net magnetization. To quantify insulating altermagnets without conduction electron, we propose to use magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) to identify the altermagnetic fingerprints. In particular, we demonstrate not only the giant MOKE responses, but also their connection with the orientations of Neel vectors at room temperature in altermagnet hematite alpha-Fe_2O_3. Specifically, under the Neel vector along the [1-100] axis, we find a giant polar Kerr rotation angle 93.4 mdeg in the (11-20) plane, which is allowed by the magnetic space group C2'/c'. Under the Neel vector along the [11-20] axis, we find a longitudinal Kerr angle 9.6 mdeg in the (0001) plane, which is allowed by the magnetic space group C2/c. Further, we show that such pronounced MOKE effects directly enable an optical imaging of altermagnetic domains, together with their reversible domain wall (DW) motion. Our studies not only suggest MOKE can be used to identify altermagnet candidates, but also signify the feasibility of exploring altermagnetic optical and DW spintronics, which could largely expand the current research paradigm of altermagnetism. △ Less

Submitted 10 December, 2025; originally announced December 2025.

Quantification of Electrolyte Degradation in Lithium-ion Batteries with Neutron Imaging Techniques

Authors: Yonggang Hu, Yiqing Liao, Lufeng Yang, Ke Zhang, Yufan Peng, Shijun Tang, Shengxiang Wang, Meifang Ding, Jiahao Wu, Jianrong Lin, Jinding Liang, Yimin Wei, Yanting Jin, Zhengliang Gong, Anatoliy Senyshyn, Jie Chen, Yong Yang

Abstract: Non-destructive characterization of lithium-ion batteries provides critical insights for optimizing performance and lifespan while preserving structural integrity. Optimizing electrolyte design in commercial LIBs requires consideration of composition, electrolyte-to-capacity ratio, spatial distribution, and associated degradation pathways. However, existing non-destructive methods for studying ele… ▽ More Non-destructive characterization of lithium-ion batteries provides critical insights for optimizing performance and lifespan while preserving structural integrity. Optimizing electrolyte design in commercial LIBs requires consideration of composition, electrolyte-to-capacity ratio, spatial distribution, and associated degradation pathways. However, existing non-destructive methods for studying electrolyte infiltration, distribution, and degradation in LIBs lack the spatiotemporal resolution required for precise observation and quantification of the electrolyte. In this study, we employ neutron imaging with sufficient spatial resolution ~150 um and large field of view 20x20 cm2 to quantitatively resolve the electrolyte inventory and distribution within LiFePO4/graphite pouch cells under high-temperature accelerated aging. Quantitative standard curves based on neutron transmission attenuation reveal a clear electrolyte dry-out threshold at 3.18 g Ah-1 and the two stages evolutions of EI during cell aging were quantified. By integrating non-destructive electrochemical diagnostics, accelerated graphite material loss and liquid phase Li+ diffusion degradation is observed during pore-drying. Further analysis, including operando cyclic aging, reveals that the neutron transmission below the saturation reference is due to the enrichment of hydrogen nuclei within the solid-electrolyte interphase. Assumed pore-drying does not occur, the SEI signal of the electrodes can be quantitatively decoupled during ageing. Combined analyses with NI, TOF-SIMS, and SEM reveal that high EI cells exhibit uniform SEI growth and reduced degradation, while low EI cells show uneven SEI formation, accelerating capacity loss. This study unveils a dynamic electrolyte infiltration-consumption-dry-out process in LIBs, offering non-destructive and quantitative insights to guide sustainable and durable battery development. △ Less

Submitted 13 October, 2025; originally announced October 2025.

High-fidelity realisation of CNOT gate in Majorana-based optical platform

Authors: Jia-Kun Li, Kai Sun, Ze-Yan Hao, Jia-He Liang, Jiannis K. Pachos, Lucy Byles, Jin-Shi Xu, Yong-Jian Han, Chuan-Feng Li, Guang-Can Guo

Abstract: We present the experimental realisation of a robust CNOT quantum gate using Majorana zero modes simulated on a photonic platform. Three Kitaev chains supporting Majorana zero modes at their endpoints are used to encode two logical qubits, and both intra-chain and inter-chain braiding operations are performed to implement the CNOT gate. While the topological encoding of quantum information in Major… ▽ More We present the experimental realisation of a robust CNOT quantum gate using Majorana zero modes simulated on a photonic platform. Three Kitaev chains supporting Majorana zero modes at their endpoints are used to encode two logical qubits, and both intra-chain and inter-chain braiding operations are performed to implement the CNOT gate. While the topological encoding of quantum information in Majorana fermions does not offer full topological protection in our non-interacting photonic setting, it nevertheless exhibits a natural resilience to the dominant noise and decoherence effects present in the experiment. Consequently, the fidelity of the CNOT gate is significantly enhanced, surpassing 0.992 and addressing a key limitation in the path toward scalable quantum computation. These results represent a major advancement in topological quantum computing with Majorana fermions and underscore the potential of photonic platforms for realising high-fidelity quantum gates. △ Less

Submitted 23 December, 2025; v1 submitted 20 August, 2025; originally announced August 2025.

Comments: 8 pages, 6 figures

Terahertz range polarization rotation in the candidate time-reversal symmetry breaking superconductor BiNi

Authors: Ralph Romero III, Zhenisbek Tagay, Jiahao Liang, Jason Y. Yan, Di Yue, N. P. Armitage

Abstract: Here we report the observation of time-reversal symmetry (TRS) breaking superconductivity in a BiNi bilayer using terahertz (THz) polarimetry. Leveraging a novel high-precision THz polarimetry technique, we detect, in the superconducting state and at zero magnetic field, the smallest polarization rotation of THz light measured to date. By using the MgO substrate itself as an optical resonator, we… ▽ More Here we report the observation of time-reversal symmetry (TRS) breaking superconductivity in a BiNi bilayer using terahertz (THz) polarimetry. Leveraging a novel high-precision THz polarimetry technique, we detect, in the superconducting state and at zero magnetic field, the smallest polarization rotation of THz light measured to date. By using the MgO substrate itself as an optical resonator, we can reference the Faraday and Kerr rotations to each other. We observe a low-frequency Kerr rotation on the order of several hundred microradians in the superconducting phase, a clear signature consistent with TRS-breaking superconductivity. Our measurements enable direct access to the THz-range Hall conductivity. Through a Kramers-Kronig analysis, we link these low-energy measurements to prior high-frequency magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) data. This connection provides critical insight into the nature of the TRS-breaking state, supporting a multiband superconducting scenario over a disordered single-band interpretation for the origin of the Kerr effect. △ Less

Submitted 11 August, 2025; originally announced August 2025.

Comments: Main text: 6 pages, 4 figures. Supplemental Info: 6 pages, 4 figures

Stern-Gerlach deflection of cryogenically cold polyatomic molecules in superfluid nanodroplets

Authors: Benjamin S. Kamerin, Thomas H. Villers, John W. Niman, Jiahao Liang, Angel I. Pena Dominguez, Vitaly V. Kresin

Abstract: Beam deflection is capable of providing valuable information about the magnetic moments of molecules and clusters as well as the relaxation dynamics of their spins. However, observations have been hampered by magnetic couplings to excited vibrational and rotational states of polyatomic systems, which are challenging to control, characterize, and systematize. In this work, we carried out deflection… ▽ More Beam deflection is capable of providing valuable information about the magnetic moments of molecules and clusters as well as the relaxation dynamics of their spins. However, observations have been hampered by magnetic couplings to excited vibrational and rotational states of polyatomic systems, which are challenging to control, characterize, and systematize. In this work, we carried out deflection measurements on superfluid helium nanodroplets doped with high-spin FeCl2 and CoCl2 molecules and their complexes. This enabled quantitative determination of the magnetic moments of molecules and clusters at extremely low, and fully defined, temperature of all of their degrees of freedom. The spin magnetic moments become thermalized and oriented along the applied field. Dimers and trimers are found to be antiferromagnetically ordered. The issue of rates and mechanisms of molecular spin relaxation within the cryogenic helium matrix is highlighted. △ Less

Submitted 11 August, 2025; v1 submitted 25 June, 2025; originally announced June 2025.

Comments: Accepted manuscript

Journal ref: J. Chem. Phys. 163, 061101 (2025)

Experimental Observation of Extremely Strong Defect-Phonon Scatterings in Semiconductor Single Crystals

Authors: Zifeng Huang, Jianbo Liang, Yuxiang Wang, Zixuan Sun, Naoteru Shigekawa, Ming Li, Runsheng Wang, Zhe Cheng

Abstract: The role of doping in tailoring thermal transport in semiconductors is critical for efficient thermal management in electronic devices. While the effects of doping have been extensively studied to tune electrical properties, its impact on thermal transport has not yet been thoroughly explored, particularly with respect to experimental investigations into exceptionally strong non-Rayleigh defect-ph… ▽ More The role of doping in tailoring thermal transport in semiconductors is critical for efficient thermal management in electronic devices. While the effects of doping have been extensively studied to tune electrical properties, its impact on thermal transport has not yet been thoroughly explored, particularly with respect to experimental investigations into exceptionally strong non-Rayleigh defect-phonon scattering phenomena. Herein, by combining the high-quality growth and advanced characterizations of cubic silicon carbide single crystals with well controlled boron doping, we experimentally observe anomalous strong defect-phonon scatterings, among the strongest reported in common semiconductors, that exceeds the predictions of the classic mass difference model by tens of times in magnitude. The measured thermal conductivity of doped 3C SiC match excellently with those predicted by first principle calculations in which resonant scattering of low frequency phonon is considered. Our findings not only shed light on the fundamental understanding of defect-phonon interactions and will also impact applications such as thermal management of electronics. △ Less

Submitted 29 April, 2025; originally announced April 2025.

Correlated insulating states in slow Dirac fermions on a honeycomb moir{é} superlattice

Authors: Dongyang Yang, Jing Liang, Haodong Hu, Nitin Kaushal, Chih-En Hsu, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Jerry. I Dadap, Zhenglu Li, Marcel Franz, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: Strong Coulomb repulsion is predicted to open a many-body charge gap at the Dirac point of graphene, transforming the semimetal into a Mott insulator. However, this correlated insulating phase has remained inaccessible in pristine graphene, where a large Fermi velocity dominates the interaction effects. To overcome this limitation, we realize a honeycomb moir{é} superlattice in a twisted MoSe$_2$… ▽ More Strong Coulomb repulsion is predicted to open a many-body charge gap at the Dirac point of graphene, transforming the semimetal into a Mott insulator. However, this correlated insulating phase has remained inaccessible in pristine graphene, where a large Fermi velocity dominates the interaction effects. To overcome this limitation, we realize a honeycomb moir{é} superlattice in a twisted MoSe$_2$ homobilayer, where a graphene-like band structure forms with a Fermi velocity reduced by nearly two orders of magnitude. These slow moir{é} bands are folded from the valence band maximum at the $Γ$ valley of the extended Brillouin zone with negligible spin-orbital coupling, and can therefore simulate massless Dirac fermions in the strongly correlated regime with full SU(2) symmetry. By correlating Rydberg exciton sensing with moir{é} trions of different spatial characters, we detect a Mott gap at the Dirac point that persists up to 110 K. We further identify correlated insulating states at $ν=-1$ with a weak ferromagnetic coupling as well as at several fractional fillings. Our results highlight the potential of studying a wide range of quantum many-body phenomena in twisted two-dimensional materials. △ Less

Submitted 24 April, 2025; originally announced April 2025.

Nanosecond Ferroelectric Switching of Intralayer Excitons in Bilayer 3R-MoS2 through Coulomb Engineering

Authors: Jing Liang, Yuan Xie, Dongyang Yang, Shangyi Guo, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Jerry I. Dadap, David Jones, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: High-speed, non-volatile tunability is critical for advancing reconfigurable photonic devices used in neuromorphic information processing, sensing, and communication. Despite significant progress in developing phase change and ferroelectric materials, achieving highly efficient, reversible, rapid switching of optical properties has remained a challenge. Recently, sliding ferroelectricity has been… ▽ More High-speed, non-volatile tunability is critical for advancing reconfigurable photonic devices used in neuromorphic information processing, sensing, and communication. Despite significant progress in developing phase change and ferroelectric materials, achieving highly efficient, reversible, rapid switching of optical properties has remained a challenge. Recently, sliding ferroelectricity has been discovered in 2D semiconductors, which also host strong excitonic effects. Here, we demonstrate that these materials enable nanosecond ferroelectric switching in the complex refractive index, largely impacting their linear optical responses. The maximum index modulation reaches about 4, resulting in a relative reflectance change exceeding 85%. Both on and off switching occurs within 2.5 nanoseconds, with switching energy at femtojoule levels. The switching mechanism is driven by tuning the excitonic peak splitting of a rhombohedral molybdenum disulfide bilayer in an engineered Coulomb screening environment. This new switching mechanism establishes a new direction for developing high-speed, non-volatile optical memories and highly efficient, compact reconfigurable photonic devices. Additionally, the demonstrated imaging technique offers a rapid method to characterize domains and domain walls in 2D semiconductors with rhombohedral stacking. △ Less

Submitted 22 April, 2025; originally announced April 2025.

Increasing Downshifting Luminescence Intensity Through an Extended Active Layer

Authors: Miao Liu, Jinyang Liang, Fiorenzo Vetrone

Abstract: The near-infrared (NIR) emission of rare-earth doped nanoparticles (RENPs), known as downshifting luminescence, has been extensively investigated in diverse applications from information technology to biomedicine. In promoting brightness and enriching the functionalities of the downshifting luminescence of RENPs, numerous studies have exploited inert shell to protect rare-earth dopants from surfac… ▽ More The near-infrared (NIR) emission of rare-earth doped nanoparticles (RENPs), known as downshifting luminescence, has been extensively investigated in diverse applications from information technology to biomedicine. In promoting brightness and enriching the functionalities of the downshifting luminescence of RENPs, numerous studies have exploited inert shell to protect rare-earth dopants from surface quenchers. However, internal concentration quenching remains an unsolved puzzle when using higher dopant concentrations of rare-earth ions in an attempt to obtain brighter emission. Following a plethora of research involving core-shell structures, the interface has shown to be controllable, ranging from a well-defined, abrupt boundary to an obscure one with cation intermixing. By utilizing this inter-mixed core-shell property for the first time, we design a new architecture to create a homogeneous double-layer core-shell interface to extend the active layer, allowing more luminescent centers without severe concentration quenching. By systematically deploying the crystallinity of the starting core, shell growth dynamics, and dopant concentrations, the downshifting luminescence intensity of new archictecture achieves a 12-fold enhancement surpassing the traditional core-shell structure. These results provide deeper insight into the potential benefits of the intermixed core-shell structure, offering an effective approach to tackling the internal concentration quenching effect for highly boosted NIR optical performance. △ Less

Submitted 17 April, 2025; originally announced April 2025.

Planckian dissipation, anomalous high temperature THz non-linear response and energy relaxation in the strange metal state of the cuprate superconductors

Authors: Dipanjan Chaudhuri, David Barbalas, Fahad Mahmood, Jiahao Liang, Ralph Romero III, Anaelle Legros, Xi He, Helene Raffy, Ivan Bozovic, N. P. Armitage

Abstract: We have investigated the nonlinear THz 2D coherent spectroscopic response of superconducting La$_{2-x}$Sr$_x$CuO$_4$ (LSCO) thin films as a function of $T$ across a wide range of doping levels from mildly underdoped through extremely overdoped ($T_c < 5$ K). In addition to the large nonlinearities expected in the superconducting state, we find an extended regime of large normal state THz nonlinear… ▽ More We have investigated the nonlinear THz 2D coherent spectroscopic response of superconducting La$_{2-x}$Sr$_x$CuO$_4$ (LSCO) thin films as a function of $T$ across a wide range of doping levels from mildly underdoped through extremely overdoped ($T_c < 5$ K). In addition to the large nonlinearities expected in the superconducting state, we find an extended regime of large normal state THz nonlinearity. This is in sharp contrast to the conventional superconductor NbN where the strong nonlinear response promptly disappears at $T_c$. The size of the nonlinear susceptibility in LSCO is $|χ^{(3)}|\approx 2.2\times10^{-9} m^2/V^2$, which is one of the largest THz range nonlinearities ever measured. The 2DCS measurement shows that the dominant normal state nonlinearities arise from pump-probe processes, of which there are various possible origins. These may be related to the unconventional interactions that lead to the strange metal or the persistence of superconducting correlations to high temperatures. Irrespective of its origin, the large normal state nonlinearity provides an opportunity to measure the energy relaxation rate ($Γ_E$) to temperatures where the momentum relaxation rate is linear in T and close to its ``Planckian" form ($Γ_M \approx 2kT/h$). We find $Γ_E$ to be $10 - 40$ times smaller than the momentum relaxation. This shows that the scattering that causes momentum loss (and $T$-linear) resistivity do not remove appreciable energy from the electrons. Although the $T$-dependence of the momentum relaxation is consistent with quasi-elastic scattering off bosonic collective modes at temperatures above their characteristic energy (the Bloch-Gruneisen temperature for acoustic phonons) it is inconsistent with $Γ_E$'s temperature dependence. $Γ_E$ is an increasing function of $T$, which is indicative of {\it inelastic} scattering to the phonon bath. △ Less

Submitted 19 March, 2025; originally announced March 2025.

Comments: 15 pages, 11 figures,

Energy and momentum relaxation through the Curie temperature in an itinerant ferromagnet

Authors: Rishi Bhandia, Tim Priessnitz, Jiahao Liang, Ksenia S. Rabinovich, Ralph Romero III, Kota Katsumi, Thi Thu Huong Tran, Georg Christiani, Gennady Logvenov, Bernhard Keimer, N. P. Armitage

Abstract: In this work, we combine conventional linear response time-domain THz spectroscopy with non-linear THz-pump THz-probe techniques to study metallic strained thin films of $\mathrm{Ca}_2\mathrm{RuO}_4$, which undergo a transition into a ferromagnetic state at 10 K. Such measurements allowing us to independently measure momentum and energy relaxation rates. We find that while the momentum relaxation… ▽ More In this work, we combine conventional linear response time-domain THz spectroscopy with non-linear THz-pump THz-probe techniques to study metallic strained thin films of $\mathrm{Ca}_2\mathrm{RuO}_4$, which undergo a transition into a ferromagnetic state at 10 K. Such measurements allowing us to independently measure momentum and energy relaxation rates. We find that while the momentum relaxation rate decreases significantly at the ferromagnetic transition, the energy relaxation rate remains unaffected by the emergence of magnetic order. This shows that the dominant changes to scattering across the transition correspond to scatterings that relax momentum without relaxing energy. It is consistent with a scenario where energy is not carried off by coupling to collective magnetic degrees of freedom. Instead, the principal channel for energy relaxation remains the conventional one e.g. coupling to acoustic phonons. This observation validates the approximation used in the conventional understanding of resistive anomalies of ferromagnets across the Curie temperature, which due to critical slowing down, spin fluctuations can be treated as effectively static and scattering off of them elastic. This scenario can likely be extended to resistive anomalies at other phase transitions to charge- and spin-density wave states in kagome metals or pnictide system △ Less

Submitted 11 December, 2024; originally announced December 2024.

Comments: 6 pages, 4 figures

Amplitude mode in a multi-gap superconductor MgB$_2$ investigated by terahertz two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy

Authors: Kota Katsumi, Jiahao Liang, Ralph Romero III, Ke Chen, Xiaoxing Xi, N. P. Armitage

Abstract: We have investigated the terahertz (THz) nonlinear response of the multigap superconductor MgB$_2$, using THz two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy (THz 2DCS). With broadband THz drive fields, we identified a nonlinear response at twice the lower superconducting gap energy $2Δ_π$ at the lowest temperatures. Using narrow-band THz driving pulses, we observed first (FH) and third harmonic responses.… ▽ More We have investigated the terahertz (THz) nonlinear response of the multigap superconductor MgB$_2$, using THz two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy (THz 2DCS). With broadband THz drive fields, we identified a nonlinear response at twice the lower superconducting gap energy $2Δ_π$ at the lowest temperatures. Using narrow-band THz driving pulses, we observed first (FH) and third harmonic responses. The FH intensity shows a monotonic increase with decreasing temperature when properly normalized by the driving field strength. This is distinct from the single-gap superconductor NbN, where the FH signal exhibited a resonant enhancement at temperatures when twice the gap energy $2Δ$ was resonant with the driving photon energy, which was interpreted to originate from the superconducting amplitude mode. Our results in MgB$_2$ are consistent with a well-defined amplitude mode only at the lowest temperatures and indicate strong damping as temperature increases. This likely indicates the importance of interband coupling in MgB$_2$ and its influence on the nature of the amplitude mode and its damping. △ Less

Submitted 16 July, 2025; v1 submitted 16 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 135, 036902 (2025)

Magnetic order induced chiral phonons in a ferromagnetic Weyl semimetal

Authors: Mengqian Che, Jinxuan Liang, Yunpeng Cui, Hao Li, Bingru Lu, Wenbo Sang, Xiang Li, Xuebin Dong, Le Zhao, Shuai Zhang, Tao Sun, Wanjun Jiang, Enke Liu, Feng Jin, Tiantian Zhang, Luyi Yang

Abstract: Chiral phonons are vibrational modes in a crystal that possess a well-defined handedness or chirality, typically found in materials that lack inversion symmetry. Here we report the discovery of chiral phonon modes in the kagome ferromagnetic Weyl semimetal Co3Sn2S2, a material that preserves inversion symmetry but breaks time-reversal symmetry. Using helicity-resolved magneto-Raman spectroscopy, w… ▽ More Chiral phonons are vibrational modes in a crystal that possess a well-defined handedness or chirality, typically found in materials that lack inversion symmetry. Here we report the discovery of chiral phonon modes in the kagome ferromagnetic Weyl semimetal Co3Sn2S2, a material that preserves inversion symmetry but breaks time-reversal symmetry. Using helicity-resolved magneto-Raman spectroscopy, we observe the spontaneous splitting of the doubly degenerate in-plane Eg modes into two distinct chiral phonon modes of opposite helicity when the sample is zero-field cooled below the Curie temperature, in the absence of an external magnetic field. As we sweep the out-of-plane magnetic field, this Eg phonon splitting exhibits a well-defined hysteresis loop directly correlated with the material's magnetization. The observed spontaneous splitting reaches up to 1.27 cm-1 at low temperatures, progressively diminishes with increasing temperature, and completely vanishes near the Curie temperature. Our findings highlight the role of the magnetic order in inducing chiral phonons, paving the way for novel methods to manipulate chiral phonons through magnetization and vice versa. Additionally, our work introduces new possibilities for controlling chiral Weyl fermions using chiral phonons. △ Less

Submitted 18 February, 2025; v1 submitted 6 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Journal ref: Physical Review Letters 134, 196906 (2025)

Resolving Polarization Switching Pathways of Sliding Ferroelectricity in Trilayer 3R-MoS2

Authors: Jing Liang, Dongyang Yang, Jingda Wu, Yunhuan Xiao, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Jerry I. Dadap, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: Exploring the pathways of polarization switching in 2D sliding ferroelectrics with multiple internal interfaces is crucial for understanding the switching mechanism and for enhancing their performance in memory-related applications. However, distinguishing the rich configurations of various stacking from a coexistence of polarization domains has remained challenging. In this investigation, we empl… ▽ More Exploring the pathways of polarization switching in 2D sliding ferroelectrics with multiple internal interfaces is crucial for understanding the switching mechanism and for enhancing their performance in memory-related applications. However, distinguishing the rich configurations of various stacking from a coexistence of polarization domains has remained challenging. In this investigation, we employ optical techniques to resolve the stacking degeneracy in a trilayer 3R-MoS2 across several polarization switching cycles. Through a comprehensive analysis of the unique excitonic response exhibited by different layers, we unveil multiple polarization switching pathways that are determined by the sequential release of domain walls initially pinned at various interfaces within the trilayer, providing an understanding of the switching mechanism in multilayered sliding ferroelectrics. Our study not only reveals the intricate dynamics of polarization switching, but also underscores the crucial role of controlling domain walls, pinning centers, and doping levels, offering new insights for enhancing the applications of these materials in sensing and computing. △ Less

Submitted 3 October, 2024; originally announced October 2024.

Creation of independently controllable and long lifetime polar skyrmion textures in ferroelectric-metallic heterostructures

Authors: Fei Sun, Jianhua Ren, Hongfang Li, Yiwei Wu, Jianwei Liang, Hui Yang, Yi Zhang, Jianyi Liu, Linjie Liu, Mengjun Wu, Xiaoyue Zhang, Wenpeng Zhu, Weijin Chen, Yue Zheng

Abstract: Topological textures like vortices, labyrinths and skyrmions formed in ferroic materials have attracted extensive interests during the past decade for their fundamental physics, intriguing topology, and technological prospects. So far, polar skyrmions remain scarce in ferroelectrics as they require a delicate balance between various dipolar interactions. Here, we report that PbTiO3 thin films in a… ▽ More Topological textures like vortices, labyrinths and skyrmions formed in ferroic materials have attracted extensive interests during the past decade for their fundamental physics, intriguing topology, and technological prospects. So far, polar skyrmions remain scarce in ferroelectrics as they require a delicate balance between various dipolar interactions. Here, we report that PbTiO3 thin films in a metallic contact undergo a topological phase transition and stabilize a broad family of skyrmion-like textures (e.g., skyrmion bubbles, multiple π-twist target skyrmions, and skyrmion bags) with independent controllability, analogous to those reported in magnetic systems. Weakly-interacted skyrmion arrays with a density over 300 Gb/inch2 are successfully written, erased and read-out by local electrical and mechanical stimuli of a scanning probe. Interestingly, in contrast to the relatively short lifetime <20 hours of the skyrmion bubbles, the multiple π-twist target skyrmions and skyrmion bags show topology-enhanced stability with lifetime over two weeks. Experimental and theoretical analysis implies the heterostructures carry electric Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction mediated by oxygen octahedral tiltings. Our results demonstrate ferroelectric-metallic heterostructures as fertile playground for topological states and emergent phenomena. △ Less

Submitted 23 September, 2024; originally announced September 2024.

Operando probing of nanocracking in CuO-derived Cu during CO$_2$ electroreduction

Authors: Jiawei Wan, Ershuai Liu, Woong Choi, Jiayun Liang, Buyu Zhang, Keon-Han Kim, Xianhu Sun, Meng Zhang, Han Xue, Yi Chen, Qiubo Zhang, Changlian Wen, Ji Yang, Karen C. Bustillo, Peter Ercius, Denis Leshchev, Ji Su, Zakaria Y. Al Balushi, Adam Z. Weber, Mark Asta, Alexis T. Bell, Walter S. Drisdell, Haimei Zheng

Abstract: Identifying and controlling active sites in electrocatalysis remains a grand challenge due to restructuring of catalysts in the complex chemical environments during operation. Inactive precatalysts can transform into active catalysts under reaction conditions, such as oxide-derived Cu (OD-Cu) for CO$_2$ electroreduction displaying improved production of multicarbon (C$_{2+}$) chemicals. Revealing… ▽ More Identifying and controlling active sites in electrocatalysis remains a grand challenge due to restructuring of catalysts in the complex chemical environments during operation. Inactive precatalysts can transform into active catalysts under reaction conditions, such as oxide-derived Cu (OD-Cu) for CO$_2$ electroreduction displaying improved production of multicarbon (C$_{2+}$) chemicals. Revealing the mechanism of active site origin in OD-Cu catalysts requires in situ/operando characterizations of structure, morphology, and valence state evolution with high spatial and temporal resolution. Applying newly developed electrochemical liquid cell transmission electron microscopy combined with X-ray absorption spectroscopy, our multimodal operando techniques unveil the formation pathways of OD-Cu active sites from CuO bicrystal nanowire precatalysts. Rapid reduction of CuO directly to Cu within 60 seconds generates a nanocrack network throughout the nanowire, via formation of "boundary nanocracks" along the twin boundary and "transverse nanocracks" propagating from the surface to the center of the nanowire. The nanocrack network further reconstructs, leading to a highly porous structure rich in Cu nanograins, with a boosted specific surface area and density of active sites for C$_{2+}$ products. These findings suggest a means to optimize active OD-Cu nanostructures through nanocracking by tailoring grain boundaries in CuO precatalysts. More generally, our advanced operando approach opens new opportunities for mechanistic insights to enable improved control of catalyst structure and performance. △ Less

Submitted 23 July, 2024; originally announced July 2024.

CrysToGraph: A Comprehensive Predictive Model for Crystal Materials Properties and the Benchmark

Authors: Hongyi Wang, Ji Sun, Jinzhe Liang, Li Zhai, Zitian Tang, Zijian Li, Wei Zhai, Xusheng Wang, Weihao Gao, Sheng Gong

Abstract: The ionic bonding across the lattice and ordered microscopic structures endow crystals with unique symmetry and determine their macroscopic properties. Unconventional crystals, in particular, exhibit non-traditional lattice structures or possess exotic physical properties, making them intriguing subjects for investigation. Therefore, to accurately predict the physical and chemical properties of cr… ▽ More The ionic bonding across the lattice and ordered microscopic structures endow crystals with unique symmetry and determine their macroscopic properties. Unconventional crystals, in particular, exhibit non-traditional lattice structures or possess exotic physical properties, making them intriguing subjects for investigation. Therefore, to accurately predict the physical and chemical properties of crystals, it is crucial to consider long-range orders. While GNN excels at capturing the local environment of atoms in crystals, they often face challenges in effectively capturing longer-ranged interactions due to their limited depth. In this paper, we propose CrysToGraph ($\textbf{Crys}$tals with $\textbf{T}$ransformers $\textbf{o}$n $\textbf{Graph}$s), a novel transformer-based geometric graph network designed specifically for unconventional crystalline systems, and UnconvBench, a comprehensive benchmark to evaluate models' predictive performance on unconventional crystal materials such as defected crystals, low-dimension crystals and MOF. CrysToGraph effectively captures short-range interactions with transformer-based graph convolution blocks as well as long-range interactions with graph-wise transformer blocks. CrysToGraph proofs its effectiveness in modelling unconventional crystal materials in multiple tasks, and moreover, it outperforms most existing methods, achieving new state-of-the-art results on the benchmarks of both unconventional crystals and traditional crystals. △ Less

Submitted 1 November, 2024; v1 submitted 22 July, 2024; originally announced July 2024.

Glass Transition in Monolayers of Rough Colloidal Ellipsoids

Authors: Jian Liang, Xuan Feng, Ning Zheng, Huaguang Wang, Ran Ni, Zexin Zhang

Abstract: Structure-dynamics correlation is one of the major ongoing debates in the glass transition, although a number of structural features have been found connected to the dynamic heterogeneity in different glass-forming colloidal systems. Here using colloidal experiments combined with coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we investigate the glass transition in monolayers of rough colloidal ell… ▽ More Structure-dynamics correlation is one of the major ongoing debates in the glass transition, although a number of structural features have been found connected to the dynamic heterogeneity in different glass-forming colloidal systems. Here using colloidal experiments combined with coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we investigate the glass transition in monolayers of rough colloidal ellipsoids. Compared with smooth colloidal ellipsoids, the surface roughness of ellipsoids is found to significantly change the nature of glass transition. In particular, we find that the surface roughness induced by coating only a few small hemispheres on the ellipsoids can eliminate the existence of orientational glass and the two-step glass transition found in monolayers of smooth ellipsoids. This is due to the surface roughness-induced coupling between the translational and rotational degrees of freedom in colloidal ellipsoids, which also destroys the structure-dynamics correlation found in glass-forming suspensions of colloidal ellipsoids. Our results not only suggest a new way of using surface roughness to manipulate the glass transition in colloidal systems, but also highlight the importance of detailed particle shape on the glass transition and structure-dynamics correlation in suspensions of anisotropic colloids. △ Less

Submitted 4 December, 2024; v1 submitted 16 July, 2024; originally announced July 2024.

Comments: Accepted in Physical Review Letters

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett., 134, 038202 (2025)

Trembling Motion of Exciton-Polaritons Close to the Rashba-Dresselhaus Regime

Authors: Wen Wen, Jie Liang, Huawen Xu, Feng Jin, Yuri G. Rubo, Timothy C. H. Liew, Rui Su

Abstract: We report the experimental emulation of trembling quantum motion, or Zitterbewegung, of exciton polaritons in a perovskite microcavity at room temperature. By introducing liquid crystal molecules into the microcavity, we achieve spinor states with synthetic Rashba-Dresselhaus spin-orbit coupling and tunable energy splitting. Under a resonant excitation, the polariton fluid exhibits clear trembling… ▽ More We report the experimental emulation of trembling quantum motion, or Zitterbewegung, of exciton polaritons in a perovskite microcavity at room temperature. By introducing liquid crystal molecules into the microcavity, we achieve spinor states with synthetic Rashba-Dresselhaus spin-orbit coupling and tunable energy splitting. Under a resonant excitation, the polariton fluid exhibits clear trembling motion perpendicular to its flowing direction, accompanied by a unique spin pattern resembling interlocked fingers. Furthermore, leveraging on the sizable tunability of energy gaps by external electrical voltages, we observe the continuous transition of polariton Zitterbewegung from relativistic (small gaps) to non-relativistic (large gaps) regimes. Our findings pave the way for using exciton polaritons in the emulation of relativistic quantum physics. △ Less

Submitted 30 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 133, 116903 (2024)

Interfacial reaction boosts thermal conductance of room-temperature integrated semiconductor interfaces stable up to 1100 C

Authors: Zhe Cheng, Xiaoyang Ji, Zifeng Huang, Yutaka Ohno, Koji Inoue, Yasusyohi Nagai, Yoshiki Sakaida, Hiroki Uratani, Naoteru Shigekawa, Jianbo Liang

Abstract: Overheating has emerged as a primary challenge constraining the reliability and performance of next-generation high-performance electronics, such as chiplets and (ultra)wide bandgap electronics. Advanced heterogeneous integration not only constitutes a pivotal technique for fabricating these electronics but also offers potential solutions for thermal management. This study presents the integration… ▽ More Overheating has emerged as a primary challenge constraining the reliability and performance of next-generation high-performance electronics, such as chiplets and (ultra)wide bandgap electronics. Advanced heterogeneous integration not only constitutes a pivotal technique for fabricating these electronics but also offers potential solutions for thermal management. This study presents the integration of high thermal conductivity semiconductors, specifically, 3C-SiC thin films and diamond substrates, through a room-temperature surface-activated bonding technique. Notably, the thermal conductivity of the 3C-SiC films is among the highest for all semiconductor films which can be integrated near room temperature with similar thicknesses. Furthermore, following annealing, the interfaces between 3C-SiC and diamond demonstrate a remarkable enhancement in thermal boundary conductance (TBC), reaching up to approximately 300%, surpassing all other grown and bonded heterointerfaces. This enhancement is attributed to interfacial reactions, specifically the transformation of amorphous silicon into SiC upon interaction with diamond, which is further corroborated by picosecond ultrasonics measurements. Subsequent to annealing at 1100 C, the achieved TBC (150 MW/m2-K) is record-high among all bonded diamond interfaces. Additionally, the visualization of large-area TBC, facilitated by femtosecond laser-based time-domain thermoreflectance measurements, shows the uniformity of the interfaces which are capable of withstanding temperatures as high as 1100 C. Our research marks a significant advancement in the realm of thermally conductive heterogeneous integration, which is promising for enhanced cooling of next-generation electronics. △ Less

Submitted 13 April, 2024; originally announced April 2024.

Ideal spin-polarized Weyl-half-semimetal with a single pair of Weyl points in half-Heusler compounds XCrTe (X=K, Rb)

Authors: Hongshuang Liu, Jin Cao, Zeying Zhang, Jiashuo Liang, Liying Wang, Shengyuan A. Yang

Abstract: Realizing ideal Weyl semimetal state with a single pair of Weyl points has been a long-sought goal in the field of topological semimetals. Here, we reveal such a state in the Cr-based half-Heusler compounds XCrTe (X=K, Rb). We show that these materials have a half metal ground state, with Fermi level crossing only one spin channel. Importantly, the Fermi surface is clean, consisting of the minimal… ▽ More Realizing ideal Weyl semimetal state with a single pair of Weyl points has been a long-sought goal in the field of topological semimetals. Here, we reveal such a state in the Cr-based half-Heusler compounds XCrTe (X=K, Rb). We show that these materials have a half metal ground state, with Fermi level crossing only one spin channel. Importantly, the Fermi surface is clean, consisting of the minimal number (i.e., a single pair) of spin-polarized Weyl points, so the state represents an ideal Weyl half semimetal. We show that the locations of the two Weyl points and the associated Chern vector can be flexibly tuned by rotating the magnetization vector. The minimal surface Fermi arc pattern and its contribution to anomalous Hall transport are discussed. Our finding offers an ideal material platform for exploring magnetic Weyl fermions, which will also facilitate the interplay between Weyl physics and spintronics. △ Less

Submitted 24 March, 2024; originally announced March 2024.

Extended Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory for Multi-Body Densities

Authors: Jiong-Hang Liang, Tian-Xing Hu, D. Wu, Zheng-Mao Sheng, J. Zhang

Abstract: Time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) is widely used for understanding and predicting properties and behaviors of matter. As one of the fundamental theorems in TDDFT, van Leeuwen's theorem [Phys. Rev. Lett. 82, 3863 (1999)] guarantees how to construct a unique potential with the same one-body density evolution. Here we extend van Leeuwen's theorem by exploring truncation criteria in BBG… ▽ More Time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) is widely used for understanding and predicting properties and behaviors of matter. As one of the fundamental theorems in TDDFT, van Leeuwen's theorem [Phys. Rev. Lett. 82, 3863 (1999)] guarantees how to construct a unique potential with the same one-body density evolution. Here we extend van Leeuwen's theorem by exploring truncation criteria in BBGKY-hierarchy. Our generalized theorem demonstrates the existence of a unique non-local potential to accurately reconstruct the multi-body density evolution in binary interacting systems. Under non-stringent conditions, truncation of the BBGKY-hierarchy equations aligns with the behavior of multi-body density evolution, and maintains consistency in the reduced equations. As one of applications within the extended TDDFT supported by our theorem, multiple excitation energy can be typically solved as the eigenvalue of a generalized Casida's equation. The extended TDDFT provides an accurate and first-principle framework capable of describing the kinetic processes of correlated system, including strongly coupled particle transport, multiple excitation and ionization processes. △ Less

Submitted 7 March, 2024; originally announced March 2024.

Optically Probing Unconventional Superconductivity in Atomically Thin Bi$_2$Sr$_2$Ca$_{0.92}$Y$_{0.08}$Cu$_2$O$_{8+δ}$

Authors: Yunhuan Xiao, Jingda Wu, Jerry I Dadap, Kashif Masud Awan, Dongyang Yang, Jing Liang, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Marta Zonno, Martin Bluschke, Hiroshi Eisaki, Martin Greven, Andrea Damascelli, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: Atomically thin cuprates exhibiting a superconducting phase transition temperature similar to bulk have recently been realized, although the device fabrication remains a challenge and limits the potential for many novel studies and applications. Here we use an optical pump-probe approach to noninvasively study the unconventional superconductivity in atomically thin Bi$_2$Sr$_2$Ca$_{0.92}$Y… ▽ More Atomically thin cuprates exhibiting a superconducting phase transition temperature similar to bulk have recently been realized, although the device fabrication remains a challenge and limits the potential for many novel studies and applications. Here we use an optical pump-probe approach to noninvasively study the unconventional superconductivity in atomically thin Bi$_2$Sr$_2$Ca$_{0.92}$Y$_{0.08}$Cu$_2$O$_{8+δ}$ (Y-Bi2212). Apart from finding an optical response due to the superconducting phase transition that is similar to bulk Y-Bi2212, we observe that the sign and amplitude of the pump-probe signal in the atomically thin flake vary significantly in different dielectric environments depending on the nature of the optical excitation. By exploiting the spatial resolution of the optical probe, we uncover the exceptional sensitivity of monolayer Y-Bi2212 to the environment. Our results provide the first optical evidence for the intralayer nature of the superconducting condensate in Bi2212, and highlight the role of double-sided encapsulation in preserving superconductivity in atomically thin cuprates. △ Less

Submitted 6 March, 2024; originally announced March 2024.

Comments: To be published in Nano Letters

Three-body scattering area for particles with infinite or zero scattering length in two dimensions

Authors: Junjie Liang, Shina Tan

Abstract: We derive the asymptotic expansions of the wave function of three particles having equal mass with finite-range interactions and infinite or zero two-dimensional scattering length colliding at zero energy and zero orbital angular momentum, from which a three-body parameter $D$ is defined. The dimension of $D$ is length squared, and we call $D$ three-body scattering area. We find that the ground st… ▽ More We derive the asymptotic expansions of the wave function of three particles having equal mass with finite-range interactions and infinite or zero two-dimensional scattering length colliding at zero energy and zero orbital angular momentum, from which a three-body parameter $D$ is defined. The dimension of $D$ is length squared, and we call $D$ three-body scattering area. We find that the ground state energy per particle of a zero-temperature dilute Bose gas with these interactions is approximately $\frac{\hbar^2 D }{6m}ρ^2$, where $ρ$ is the number density of the bosons, $m$ is the mass of each boson, and $\hbar$ is Planck's constant over $2π$. Such a Bose gas is stable at $D\geq 0$ in the thermodynamic limit, and metastable at $D<0$ in the harmonic trap if the number of bosons is less than $N_{cr}\approx 3.6413 \sqrt{\frac{\hbar}{mω|D|}}$, where $ω$ is the angular frequency of the harmonic trap. If the two-body interaction supports bound states, $D$ typically acquires a negative imaginary part, and we find the relation between this imaginary part and the amplitudes of the pair-boson production processes. We derive a formula for the three-body recombination rate constant of the many-boson system in terms of the imaginary part of $D$. △ Less

Submitted 28 April, 2024; v1 submitted 3 February, 2024; originally announced February 2024.

Probing topological phase transition with non-Hermitian perturbations

Authors: Jingcheng Liang, Chen Fang, Jiangping Hu

Abstract: We demonstrate that non-Hermitian perturbations can probe topological phase transitions and unambiguously detect non-Abelian zero modes. We show that under carefully designed non-Hermitian perturbations, the Loschmidt echo(LE) decays into 1/N where N is the ground state degeneracy in the topological non-trivial phase, while it approaches 1 in the trivial phase. This distinction is robust against s… ▽ More We demonstrate that non-Hermitian perturbations can probe topological phase transitions and unambiguously detect non-Abelian zero modes. We show that under carefully designed non-Hermitian perturbations, the Loschmidt echo(LE) decays into 1/N where N is the ground state degeneracy in the topological non-trivial phase, while it approaches 1 in the trivial phase. This distinction is robust against small parameter deviations in the non-Hermitian perturbations. We further study four well-known models that support Majorana or parafermionic zero modes. By calculating their dynamical responses to specific non-Hermitian perturbations, we prove that the steady-state LE can indeed differentiate between different phases. This method avoids the ambiguity introduced by trivial zero-energy states and thus provides an alternative and promising way to demonstrate the emergence of topologically non-trivial phases. The experimental realizations of non-Hermitian perturbations are discussed. △ Less

Submitted 31 December, 2023; originally announced January 2024.

Comments: 11 pages, 4 figures

Spin-dependent localization of helical edge states in a non-Hermitian phononic crystal

Authors: Junpeng Wu, Riyi Zheng, Jialuo Liang, Manzhu Ke, Jiuyang Lu, Weiyin Deng, Xueqin Huang, Zhengyou Liu

Abstract: As a distinctive feature unique to non-Hermitian systems, non-Hermitian skin effect displays fruitful exotic phenomena in one or higher dimensions, especially when conventional topological phases are involved. Among them, hybrid skin-topological effect is theoretically proposed recently, which exhibits anomalous localization of topological boundary states at lower-dimensional boundaries accompanie… ▽ More As a distinctive feature unique to non-Hermitian systems, non-Hermitian skin effect displays fruitful exotic phenomena in one or higher dimensions, especially when conventional topological phases are involved. Among them, hybrid skin-topological effect is theoretically proposed recently, which exhibits anomalous localization of topological boundary states at lower-dimensional boundaries accompanied by extended bulk states. Here we experimentally realize the hybrid skin-topological effect in a non-Hermitian phononic crystal. The phononic crystal, before tuning to be non-Hermitian, is an ideal acoustic realization of the Kane-Mele model, which hosts gapless helical edge states at the boundaries. By introducing a staggered distribution of loss, the spin-dependent edge modes pile up to opposite corners, leading to a direct observation of the spin-dependent hybrid skin-topological effect. Our work highlights the interplay between topology and non-Hermiticity and opens new routes to non-Hermitian wave manipulations. △ Less

Submitted 19 December, 2023; originally announced December 2023.

Non-volatile electrical polarization switching via domain wall release in 3R-MoS$_2$ bilayer

Authors: Dongyang Yang, Jing Liang, Jingda Wu, Yunhuan Xiao, Jerry I. Dadap, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: Understanding the nature of sliding ferroelectricity is of fundamental importance for the discovery and application of two-dimensional ferroelectric materials. In this work, we investigate the phenomenon of switchable polarization in a bilayer MoS$_2$ with a natural rhombohedral stacking, where the spontaneous polarization is coupled with excitonic effects through an asymmetric interlayer coupling… ▽ More Understanding the nature of sliding ferroelectricity is of fundamental importance for the discovery and application of two-dimensional ferroelectric materials. In this work, we investigate the phenomenon of switchable polarization in a bilayer MoS$_2$ with a natural rhombohedral stacking, where the spontaneous polarization is coupled with excitonic effects through an asymmetric interlayer coupling. Using optical spectroscopy and imaging techniques, we observe how a released domain wall switches the polarization of a large single domain. Our results highlight the importance of domain walls in the polarization switching of non-twisted rhombohedral transition metal dichalcogenides and open new opportunities for the non-volatile control of their optical response. △ Less

Submitted 20 November, 2023; originally announced November 2023.

Comments: 4 Figures

Combined Experimental and Theoretical Studies on Iodine Capture of Zr-based Metal-Organic Frameworks: Effect of N-functionalization and Adsorption Mechanism

Authors: Jie Liang, Haoyi Tan, Jiaomei Liu, Huizhao Qi, Xin Li, Liu Wu, Xiangfei Xue, Guangcun Shan

Abstract: The potential leakage of nuclear waste, especially radioiodine, is a major safety concerning issue around the world. To remove radioiodine from nuclear waste efficiently, there is an urgent demand for adsorbents that possess both high stability and strong adsorption affinity for environmental remediation. Herein, two Zr-based metal-organic frameworks (Zr-MOFs) and their N-functionalized analogues… ▽ More The potential leakage of nuclear waste, especially radioiodine, is a major safety concerning issue around the world. To remove radioiodine from nuclear waste efficiently, there is an urgent demand for adsorbents that possess both high stability and strong adsorption affinity for environmental remediation. Herein, two Zr-based metal-organic frameworks (Zr-MOFs) and their N-functionalized analogues have been synthesized and researched for iodine adsorption in both vapours and solutions. It was found that Zr-MOFs with N-enriched ligands (e.g., pyridine and amino) exhibited the faster iodine adsorption rate and the higher iodine uptake amount (e.g., reaching adsorption equilibrium within 4 hours with the removal rate of above 85% for iodine solution adsorption) than their unfunctionalized counterparts (UiO-66 and UiO-67). The critical role played by N-enriched groups in enhancing iodine adsorption has been revealed through versatile model fittings, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy characterizations, as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Compared to those in amino-group, the N-atoms in pyridine-groups showed a deeper affinity towards iodine molecules. Remarkably, the N-enriched UiOs adsorbents also exhibited good recyclability, especially UiO-66-PYDC and UiO-67-NH2 could maintain the removal efficiency of 89.05% and 85.49% after four adsorption-desorption recycling tests. With the strong iodine uptake affinity and outstanding regeneration performance, this work has systematically investigated the impact of N-functionalization on the enhanced performance for iodine capture by using the N-enriched UiO MOFs as promising adsorbents, providing an insightful guideline into the physical chemistry of adsorption mechanism behind the radioiodine capture. △ Less

Submitted 5 October, 2023; originally announced October 2023.

Comments: 28 pages, in press, Materials Today Sustainability Available online 4 October 2023, 100574

Journal ref: Materials Today Sustainability, 2023, 100574

Low energy electrodynamics and a hidden Fermi liquid in the heavy-fermion CeCoIn$_5$

Authors: L. Y. Shi, Zhenisbek Tagay, Jiahao Liang, Khoan Duong, Yi Wu, F. Ronning, Darrell G. Schlom, K. M. Shen, N. P. Armitage

Abstract: We present time-domain THz spectroscopy of thin films of the heavy-fermion superconductor CeCoIn$_5$. Below the $\approx$ 40 K Kondo coherence temperature, a narrow Drude-like peak forms, as the result of the $f$ orbital - conduction electron hybridization and the formation of the heavy-fermion state. The complex optical conductivity is analyzed through a Drude model and extended Drude model analy… ▽ More We present time-domain THz spectroscopy of thin films of the heavy-fermion superconductor CeCoIn$_5$. Below the $\approx$ 40 K Kondo coherence temperature, a narrow Drude-like peak forms, as the result of the $f$ orbital - conduction electron hybridization and the formation of the heavy-fermion state. The complex optical conductivity is analyzed through a Drude model and extended Drude model analysis. Via the extended Drude model analysis, we measure the frequency-dependent scattering rate ($1/ τ$) and effective mass ($m^*/m_b$). This scattering rate shows a linear dependence on temperature, which matches the dependence of the resistivity as expected. Nevertheless, the width of the low-frequency Drude peak itself that is set by the {\it renormalized} quasiparticle scattering rate ($1 / τ^* = m_b/ m^* τ$) shows a $T^2$ dependence. This is the scattering rate that characterizes the relaxation time of the renormalized quasiparticles. This gives evidence for Fermi liquid state, which in conventional transport experiments is hidden by the strong temperature dependent mass. △ Less

Submitted 7 April, 2025; v1 submitted 16 October, 2023; originally announced October 2023.

Comments: 5 pages, 4 figures

Strong magnon-magnon coupling in an ultralow damping all-magnetic-insulator heterostructure

Authors: Jiacheng Liu, Yuzan Xiong, Jingming Liang, Xuezhao Wu, Chen Liu, Shun Kong Cheung, Zheyu Ren, Ruizi Liu, Andrew Christy, Zehan Chen, Ferris Prima Nugraha, Xi-Xiang Zhang, Chi Wah Leung, Wei Zhang, Qiming Shao

Abstract: Magnetic insulators such as yttrium iron garnets (YIGs) are of paramount importance for spin-wave or magnonic devices as their ultralow damping enables ultralow power dissipation that is free of Joule heating, exotic magnon quantum state, and coherent coupling to other wave excitations. Magnetic insulator heterostructures bestow superior structural and magnetic properties and house immense design… ▽ More Magnetic insulators such as yttrium iron garnets (YIGs) are of paramount importance for spin-wave or magnonic devices as their ultralow damping enables ultralow power dissipation that is free of Joule heating, exotic magnon quantum state, and coherent coupling to other wave excitations. Magnetic insulator heterostructures bestow superior structural and magnetic properties and house immense design space thanks to the strong and engineerable exchange interaction between individual layers. To fully unleash their potential, realizing low damping and strong exchange coupling simultaneously is critical, which often requires high quality interface. Here, we show that such a demand is realized in an all-insulator thulium iron garnet (TmIG)/YIG bilayer system. The ultralow dissipation rates in both YIG and TmIG, along with their significant spin-spin interaction at the interface, enable strong and coherent magnon-magnon coupling with a benchmarking cooperativity value larger than the conventional ferromagnetic metal-based heterostructures. The coupling strength can be tuned by varying the magnetic insulator layer thickness and magnon modes, which is consistent with analytical calculations and micromagnetic simulations. Our results demonstrate TmIG/YIG as a novel platform for investigating hybrid magnonic phenomena and open opportunities in magnon devices comprising all-insulator heterostructures. △ Less

Submitted 6 September, 2023; originally announced September 2023.

Comments: 45 pages, 18 figures, and 2 tables

Coherent Dynamics of Charge Carriers in γ-InSe Revealed by Ultrafast Spectroscopy

Authors: Jianwei Shen, Jiayu Liang, Qixu Zhao, Menghui Jia, Jinquan Chen, Haitao Sun, Qinghong Yuan, Hong-Guang Duan, Ajay Jha, Yan Yang, Zhenrong Sun

Abstract: For highly efficient ultrathin solar cells, layered indium selenide (InSe), a van der Waals solid, has shown a great promise. In this paper, we study the coherent dynamics of charge carriers generation in γ-InSe single crystals. We employ ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy to examine the dynamics of hot electrons after resonant photoexcitation. To study the effect of excess kinetic energy… ▽ More For highly efficient ultrathin solar cells, layered indium selenide (InSe), a van der Waals solid, has shown a great promise. In this paper, we study the coherent dynamics of charge carriers generation in γ-InSe single crystals. We employ ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy to examine the dynamics of hot electrons after resonant photoexcitation. To study the effect of excess kinetic energy of electrons after creating A exciton (VB1 to CB transition), we excite the sample with broadband pulses centered at 600, 650, 700 and 750 nm, respectively. We analyze the relaxation and recombination dynamics in γ-InSe by global fitting approach. Five decay associated spectra with their associated lifetimes are obtained, which have been assigned to intraband vibrational relaxation and interband recombination processes. We extract characteristic carrier thermalization times from 1 to 10 ps. To examine the coherent vibrations accompanying intraband relaxation dynamics, we analyze the kinetics by fitting to exponential functions and the obtained residuals are further processed for vibrational analysis. A few key phonon coherences are resolved and ab-initio quantum calculations reveal the nature of the associated phonons. The wavelet analysis is employed to study the time evolution of the observed coherences, which show that the low-frequency coherences last for more than 5 ps. Associated calculations reveal that the contribution of the intralayer phonon modes is the key determining factor for the scattering between free electrons and lattice. Our results provide fundamental insights into the photophysics in InSe and help to unravel their potential for high-performance optoelectronic devices. △ Less

Submitted 24 July, 2023; originally announced July 2023.

Shear-strain-induced two-dimensional slip avalanches in rhombohedral MoS2

Authors: Jing Liang, Dongyang Yang, Yunhuan Xiao, Sean Chen, Jerry I. Dadap, Joerg Rottler, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: Slip avalanches are ubiquitous phenomena occurring in 3D materials under shear strain and their study contributes immensely to our understanding of plastic deformation, fragmentation, and earthquakes. So far, little is known about the role of shear strain in 2D materials. Here we show some evidence of two-dimensional slip avalanches in exfoliated rhombohedral MoS2, triggered by shear strain near t… ▽ More Slip avalanches are ubiquitous phenomena occurring in 3D materials under shear strain and their study contributes immensely to our understanding of plastic deformation, fragmentation, and earthquakes. So far, little is known about the role of shear strain in 2D materials. Here we show some evidence of two-dimensional slip avalanches in exfoliated rhombohedral MoS2, triggered by shear strain near the threshold level. Utilizing interfacial polarization in 3R-MoS2, we directly probe the stacking order in multilayer flakes and discover a wide variety of polarization domains with sizes following a power-law distribution. These findings suggest slip avalanches can occur during the exfoliation of 2D materials, and the stacking orders can be changed via shear strain. Our observation has far-reaching implications for developing new materials and technologies, where precise control over the atomic structure of these materials is essential for optimizing their properties as well as for our understanding of fundamental physical phenomena. △ Less

Submitted 21 June, 2023; originally announced June 2023.

Comments: To be published in Nano Letters

Observation of colossal topological Hall effect in noncoplanar ferromagnet Cr5Te6 thin films

Authors: Yequan Chen, Yingmei Zhu, Renju Lin, Wei Niu, Ruxin Liu, Wenzhuo Zhuang, Xu Zhang, Jinghua Liang, Wenxuan Sun, Zhongqiang Chen, Yongsheng Hu, Fengqi Song, Jian Zhou, Di Wu, Binghui Ge, Hongxin Yang, Rong Zhang, Xuefeng Wang

Abstract: The topological Hall effect (THE) is critical to the exploration of the spin chirality generated by the real-space Berry curvature, which has attracted worldwide attention for its prospective applications in spintronic devices. However, the prominent THE remains elusive at room temperature, which severely restricts the practical integration of chiral spin textures. Here, we show a colossal intrins… ▽ More The topological Hall effect (THE) is critical to the exploration of the spin chirality generated by the real-space Berry curvature, which has attracted worldwide attention for its prospective applications in spintronic devices. However, the prominent THE remains elusive at room temperature, which severely restricts the practical integration of chiral spin textures. Here, we show a colossal intrinsic THE in large-area ferromagnet Cr5Te6 thin films epitaxially grown by pulsed laser deposition. Such a THE can be maintained until 270 K, which is attributed to the field-stimulated noncoplanar spin textures induced by the interaction of the in-plane ferromagnet and antiferromagnet infrastructures. Our first-principles calculations further verify the considerable Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction in Cr5Te6. This work not only paves the way for robust chiral spin textures near room temperature in large-area low-dimensional ferromagnetic films for practical applications, but also facilitates the development of high-density and dissipationless spintronic devices. △ Less

Submitted 23 April, 2023; originally announced April 2023.

Comments: 18 pages, 13 figures, 1 table

Journal ref: Advanced Functional Materials 33, 2302984 (2023)

Elucidating the Mechanism of Large Phosphate Molecule Intercalation Through Graphene Heterointerfaces

Authors: Jiayun Liang, Ke Ma, Xiao Zhao, Guanyu Lu, Jake V. Riffle, Carmen Andrei, Chengye Dong, Turker Furkan, Siavash Rajabpour, Rajiv Ramanujam Prabhakar, Joshua A. Robinson, Magdaleno R. Vasquez Jr., Quang Thang Trinh, Joel W. Ager, Miquel Salmeron, Shaul Aloni, Joshua D. Caldwell, Shawna M. Hollen, Hans A. Bechtel, Nabil Bassim, Matthew P. Sherburne, Zakaria Y. Al Balushi

Abstract: Intercalation is a process of inserting chemical species into the heterointerfaces of two-dimensional (2D) layered materials. While much research has focused on intercalating metals and small gas molecules into graphene, the intercalation of larger molecules through the basal plane of graphene remains highly unexplored. In this work, we present a new mechanism for intercalating large molecules thr… ▽ More Intercalation is a process of inserting chemical species into the heterointerfaces of two-dimensional (2D) layered materials. While much research has focused on intercalating metals and small gas molecules into graphene, the intercalation of larger molecules through the basal plane of graphene remains highly unexplored. In this work, we present a new mechanism for intercalating large molecules through monolayer graphene to form confined oxide materials at the graphene-substrate heterointerface. We investigate the intercalation of phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) molecules directly from the vapor phase and confirm the formation of confined P2O5 at the graphene heterointerface using various techniques. Density functional theory (DFT) corroborate the experimental results and reveal the intercalation mechanism, whereby P2O5 dissociates into small fragments catalyzed by defects in the graphene that then permeates through lattice defects and reacts at the heterointerface to form P2O5. This process can also be used to form new confined metal phosphates (e.g., 2D InPO4). While the focus of this study is on P2O5 intercalation, the possibility of intercalation from pre-dissociated molecules catalyzed by defects in graphene may exist for other types of molecules as well. This study is a significant milestone in advancing our understanding of intercalation routes of large molecules via the basal plane of graphene, as well as heterointerface chemical reactions leading to the formation of distinctive confined complex oxide compounds. △ Less

Submitted 4 April, 2023; originally announced April 2023.

Tuning the Interlayer Microstructure and Residual Stress of Buffer-Free Direct Bonding GaN/Si Heterostructures

Authors: Yan Zhou, Shi Zhou, Shun Wan, Bo Zou, Yuxia Feng, Rui Mei, Heng Wu, Pingheng Tan, Naoteru Shigekawa, Jianbo Liang, Martin Kuball

Abstract: The direct integration of GaN with Si can boost great potential for low-cost, large-scale, and high-power device applications. However, it is still challengeable to directly grow GaN on Si without using thick strain relief buffer layers due to their large lattice and thermal-expansion-coefficient mismatches. In this work, a GaN/Si heterointerface without any buffer layer is successfully fabricated… ▽ More The direct integration of GaN with Si can boost great potential for low-cost, large-scale, and high-power device applications. However, it is still challengeable to directly grow GaN on Si without using thick strain relief buffer layers due to their large lattice and thermal-expansion-coefficient mismatches. In this work, a GaN/Si heterointerface without any buffer layer is successfully fabricated at room temperature via surface activated bonding (SAB). The residual stress states and interfacial microstructures of GaN/Si heterostructures were systematically investigated through micro-Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Compared to the large compressive stress that existed in GaN layers grown-on-Si by MOCVD, a significantly relaxed and uniform small tensile stress was observed in GaN layers bonded-to-Si by SAB; this is mainly ascribed to the amorphous layer formed at the bonding interface. In addition, the interfacial microstructure and stress states of bonded GaN/Si heterointerfaces was found can be significantly tuned by appropriate thermal annealing. This work moves an important step forward directly integrating GaN to the present Si CMOS technology with high quality thin interfaces, and brings great promises for wafer-scale low-cost fabrication of GaN electronics. △ Less

Submitted 2 February, 2023; originally announced February 2023.

Comments: 15 pages, 3 figures

Gradient-induced Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction

Authors: Jinghua Liang, Mairbek Chshiev, Albert Fert, Hongxin Yang

Abstract: The Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) that arises in the magnetic systems with broken inversion symmetry plays an essential role in topological spintronics. Here, by means of atomistic spin calculations, we study an intriguing type of DMI (g-DMI) that emerges in the films with composition gradient. We show that both the strength and chirality of g-DMI can be controlled by the composition gra… ▽ More The Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) that arises in the magnetic systems with broken inversion symmetry plays an essential role in topological spintronics. Here, by means of atomistic spin calculations, we study an intriguing type of DMI (g-DMI) that emerges in the films with composition gradient. We show that both the strength and chirality of g-DMI can be controlled by the composition gradient even in the disordered system. The layer-resolved analysis of g-DMI unveils its additive nature inside the bulk layers and clarifies the linear thickness dependence of g-DMI observed in experiments. Furthermore, we demonstrate the g-DMI induced chiral magnetic structures, such as spin spirals and skyrmions, and the g-DMI driven field-free spin-orbit torque (SOT) switching, both of which are crucial towards practical device application. These results elucidate the underlying mechanisms of g-DMI and open up a new way to engineer the topological magnetic textures. △ Less

Submitted 12 December, 2022; originally announced December 2022.

Comments: in production in Nano Letters

Journal ref: Nano Letters 2022

Light Induced Surface Tension Gradients for Hierarchical Assembly of Particles from Liquid Metals

Authors: Jiayun Liang, Zakaria Y. Al Balushi

Abstract: Achieving control over the motion of dissolved particles in liquid metals is of importance for the meticulous realization of hierarchical particle assemblies in a variety of nanofabrication processes. Brownian forces can impede the motion of such particles, impacting the degree of perfection that can be realized in assembled structures. Here we show that light induced Marangoni flow in liquid meta… ▽ More Achieving control over the motion of dissolved particles in liquid metals is of importance for the meticulous realization of hierarchical particle assemblies in a variety of nanofabrication processes. Brownian forces can impede the motion of such particles, impacting the degree of perfection that can be realized in assembled structures. Here we show that light induced Marangoni flow in liquid metals (i.e., liquid-gallium) with Laguerre-gaussian (LG) lasers as heating sources, is an effective approach to overcome Brownian forces on particles, giving rise to predictable assemblies with high degree of order. We show that by carefully engineering surface tension gradients in liquid-gallium using non-gaussian LG lasers, the Marangoni and convective flow that develops in the fluid drives the trajectory of randomly dispersed particles to assemble into 100 um wide ring-shaped particle assemblies. Careful control over the parameters of the LG laser (i.e., laser mode, spot size, and intensity of the electric field) can tune the temperature and fluid dynamics of the liquid-gallium as well as the balance of forces on the particle. This in turn can tune the structure of the ring-shaped particle assembly with a high degree of fidelity. The use of light to control the motion of particles in liquid metals represents a tunable and rapidly reconfigurable approach to spatially design surface tension gradients in fluids for more complex assembly of particles and small-scale solutes. This work can be extended to a variety of liquid-metals, complementary to what has been realized in particle assembly out of ferrofluids using magnetic fields. △ Less

Submitted 12 November, 2022; originally announced November 2022.

Ultrafast response of spontaneous photovoltaic effect in 3R-MoS2-based heterostructures

Authors: Jingda Wu, Dongyang Yang, Jing Liang, Max Werner, Evgeny Ostroumov, Yunhuan Xiao, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Jerry I. Dadap, David Jones, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: Rhombohedrally stacked MoS2 has been shown to exhibit spontaneous polarization down to the bilayer limit and can sustain a strong depolarization field when sandwiched between graphene. Such a field gives rise to a spontaneous photovoltaic effect without needing any p-n junction. In this work, we show the photovoltaic effect has an external quantum efficiency of 10\% for devices with only two atomi… ▽ More Rhombohedrally stacked MoS2 has been shown to exhibit spontaneous polarization down to the bilayer limit and can sustain a strong depolarization field when sandwiched between graphene. Such a field gives rise to a spontaneous photovoltaic effect without needing any p-n junction. In this work, we show the photovoltaic effect has an external quantum efficiency of 10\% for devices with only two atomic layers of MoS2 at low temperatures, and identify a picosecond-fast photocurrent response, which translates to an intrinsic device bandwidth at ~ 100-GHz level. To this end, we have developed a non-degenerate pump-probe photocurrent spectroscopy technique to deconvolute the thermal and charge-transfer processes, thus successfully revealing the multi-component nature of the photocurrent dynamics. The fast component approaches the limit of the charge-transfer speed at the graphene-MoS2 interface. The remarkable efficiency and ultrafast photoresponse in the graphene-3R-MoS2 devices support the use of ferroelectric van der Waals materials for future high-performance optoelectronic applications. △ Less

Submitted 12 November, 2022; originally announced November 2022.

Comments: To be published in Science Advances

Quantum anomalous Hall effects controlled by chiral domain walls

Authors: Qirui Cui, Jinghua Liang, Yingmei Zhu, Xiong Yao, Hongxin Yang

Abstract: We report the interplay between two different topological phases in condensed matter physics, the magnetic chiral domain wall (DW), and the quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) effect. We show that the chiral DW driven by Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) can divide the uniform domain into several zones where the neighboring zone possesses opposite quantized Hall conductance. The separated domain wi… ▽ More We report the interplay between two different topological phases in condensed matter physics, the magnetic chiral domain wall (DW), and the quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) effect. We show that the chiral DW driven by Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) can divide the uniform domain into several zones where the neighboring zone possesses opposite quantized Hall conductance. The separated domain with a chiral edge state (CES) can be continuously modified by external magnetic field-induced domain expansion and thermal fluctuation, which gives rise to the reconfigurable QAH effect. More interestingly, we show that the position of CES can be tuned by spin current-driven chiral DW motion. Several two-dimensional magnets with high Curie temperatures and large topological band gaps are proposed for realizing these phenomena. Our work thus reveals the possibility of chiral DW controllable QAH effects. △ Less

Submitted 13 October, 2022; originally announced October 2022.

Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction and magnetic skyrmions induced by curvature

Authors: Yonglong Ga, Qirui Cui, Jinghua Liang, Dongxing Yu, Yingmei Zhu, Liming Wang, Hongxin Yang

Abstract: Realizing sizeable Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) in intrinsic two-dimensional (2D) magnets without any manipulation will greatly enrich potential application of spintronics devices. The simplest and most desirable situation should be 2D magnets with intrinsic DMI and intrinsic chiral spin textures. Here, we propose to realize DMI by designing periodic ripple structures with different cur… ▽ More Realizing sizeable Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) in intrinsic two-dimensional (2D) magnets without any manipulation will greatly enrich potential application of spintronics devices. The simplest and most desirable situation should be 2D magnets with intrinsic DMI and intrinsic chiral spin textures. Here, we propose to realize DMI by designing periodic ripple structures with different curvatures in low-dimensional magnets and demonstrate the concept in both one-dimensional (1D) CrBr2 and two-dimensional (2D) MnSe2 magnets by using first-principles calculations. We find that DMIs in curved CrBr2 and MnSe2 can be efficiently controlled by varying the size of curvature c, where c is defined as the ratio between the height h and the length l of curved structure. Moreover, we unveil that the dependence of first-principles calculated DMI on size of curvature c can be well described by the three-site Fert-Lévy model. At last, we uncover that field-free magnetic skyrmions can be realized in curved MnSe2 by using atomistic spin model simulations based on first-principles calculated magnetic parameters. The work will open a new avenue for inducing DMI and chiral spin textures in simple 2D magnets via curvature. △ Less

Submitted 23 September, 2022; originally announced September 2022.

Comments: Published on Physical Review B 106, 054426

Journal ref: Physical Review B 106, 054426 (2022)

Ferroelectricity controlled chiral spin textures and anomalous valley Hall effect in the Janus magnet-based multiferroic heterostructure

Authors: Yingmei Zhu, Qirui Cui, Jinghua Liang, Yonglong Ga, Hongxin Yang

Abstract: Realizing effective manipulation and explicit identification of topological spin textures are two crucial ingredients to make them as information carrier in spintronic devices with high storage density, high data handling speed and low energy consumption. Electric-field manipulation of magnetism has been achieved as a dissipationless method compared with traditional regulations. However, the magne… ▽ More Realizing effective manipulation and explicit identification of topological spin textures are two crucial ingredients to make them as information carrier in spintronic devices with high storage density, high data handling speed and low energy consumption. Electric-field manipulation of magnetism has been achieved as a dissipationless method compared with traditional regulations. However, the magnetization is normally insensitive to the electric field since it does not break time-reversal symmetry directly, and distribution of topological magnetic quasiparticles is difficult to maintain due to the drift arising from external fluctuation, which could result in ambiguous recognition between quasiparticles and uniform magnetic background. Here, we demonstrate that electric polarization-driven skyrmionic and uniform ferromagnetic states can be easily and explicitly distinguished by transverse voltage arising from anomalous valley Hall effect in the Janus magnet-based multiferroic heterostructure LaClBr/In2Se3. Our work provides an alternative approach for data encoding, in which data are encoded by combing topological spin textures with detectable electronic transport. △ Less

Submitted 23 September, 2022; originally announced September 2022.

Comments: published in 2D materials, 9, 045030 (2022)

Journal ref: 2D materials 9, 045030 (2022)

Optically probing the asymmetric interlayer coupling in rhombohedral-stacked MoS2 bilayer

Authors: Jing Liang, Dongyang Yang, Jingda Wu, Jerry I Dadap, Kenji Watanabe, Takashi Taniguchi, Ziliang Ye

Abstract: The interlayer coupling is emerging as a new parameter for tuning the physical properties of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals materials. When two identical semiconductor monolayers are stacked with a twist angle, the periodic interlayer coupling modulation due to the moiré superlattice may endow exotic physical phenomena, such as moiré excitons and correlated electronic phases. To gain insight i… ▽ More The interlayer coupling is emerging as a new parameter for tuning the physical properties of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals materials. When two identical semiconductor monolayers are stacked with a twist angle, the periodic interlayer coupling modulation due to the moiré superlattice may endow exotic physical phenomena, such as moiré excitons and correlated electronic phases. To gain insight into these new phenomena, it is crucial to unveil the underlying coupling between atomic layers. Recently, the rhombohedral-stacked transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) bilayer has attracted significant interest because of the emergence of an out-of-plane polarization from non-ferroelectric monolayer constituents. However, as a key parameter responsible for the physical properties, the interlayer coupling and its relationship with ferroelectricity in them remain elusive. Here we probe the asymmetric interlayer coupling between the conduction band of one layer and the valence band from the other layer in a 3R-MoS2 bilayer, which can be understood as a result of a layer-dependent Berry phase winding. By performing optical spectroscopy in a dual-gated device, we show a type-II band alignment exists at K points in the 3R-MoS2 bilayer. Furthermore, by unraveling various contributions to the band offset, we quantitatively determine the asymmetric interlayer coupling and spontaneous polarization in 3R-MoS2. △ Less

Submitted 14 September, 2022; originally announced September 2022.

Comments: To be published in Physical Review X

Selective Direct Bonding of High Thermal Conductivity 3C-SiC Film to \b{eta}-Ga2O3 for Top-Side Heat Extraction

Authors: Jianbo Liang, Hiromu Nagai, Zhe Cheng, Keisuke Kawamura, Yasuo Shimizu, Yutaka Ohno, Yoshiki Sakaida, Hiroki Uratani, Hideto Yoshida, Yasuyoshi Nagai, Naoteru Shigekawa

Abstract: beta-Ga2O3 is a wide bandgap semiconductor with electrical properties better than SiC and GaN which makes it promising for applications of next-generation power devices. However, the thermal conductivity of \b{eta}-Ga2O3 is more than one order of magnitude lower than that of SiC and GaN, resulting in serious thermal management problems that limit device performance and reliability. This work repor… ▽ More beta-Ga2O3 is a wide bandgap semiconductor with electrical properties better than SiC and GaN which makes it promising for applications of next-generation power devices. However, the thermal conductivity of \b{eta}-Ga2O3 is more than one order of magnitude lower than that of SiC and GaN, resulting in serious thermal management problems that limit device performance and reliability. This work reports selectively transferring of high thermal conductivity 3C-SiC thin film grown on Si to beta-Ga2O3 (001) substrate using surface activated bonding (SAB) technique at room temperature, to attempt extracting the heat from the surface of the devices. A 4.5-nm-thick interfacial crystal defect layer is formed at the as-bonded 3C-SiC/beta-Ga2O3 interface. The thickness of the interfacial crystal defect layer decreases with increasing annealing temperature, which decreases to 1.5 nm after annealing at 1000 C. No voids and unbonded area are observed at the interfaces, even after annealing at temperature as high as 1000 C. The thermal boundary conductance (TBC) of the 1000 C-annealed 3C-SiC/beta-Ga2O3 interface and thermal conductivity of the beta-Ga2O3 substrate was measured by time-domain thermoreflectance (TDTR). The 3C-SiC/beta-Ga2O3 TBC value was determined to be 244 MW/m2-K, which is the highest value ever reported for SiC/Ga2O3 interfaces, due to the high-quality heterointerface. Our works demonstrate that selective transferring of 3C-SiC film to the beta-Ga2O3 substrate is an efficient path to improve heat dissipation of the \b{eta}-Ga2O3 power devices. △ Less

Submitted 12 September, 2022; originally announced September 2022.

Interfacial superconductivity and zero bias peak in quasi-one-dimensional Bi2Te3/Fe1+yTe heterostructure nanostructures

Authors: Man Kit Cheng, Cheuk Yin Ng, Sui Lun Ho, Omargeldi Atanov, Wai Ting Tai, Jing Liang, Rolf Lortz, Iam Keong Sou

Abstract: Bi2Te3/Fe1+yTe heterostructures are known to exhibit interfacial superconductivity between two non-superconducting materials: Fe1+yTe as the parent compound of Fe-based superconducting materials and the topological insulator Bi2Te3. Here, we present a top-down approach starting from two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures to fabricate one-dimensional (1D) Bi2Te3/Fe1+yTe nanowires or narrow nanoribbo… ▽ More Bi2Te3/Fe1+yTe heterostructures are known to exhibit interfacial superconductivity between two non-superconducting materials: Fe1+yTe as the parent compound of Fe-based superconducting materials and the topological insulator Bi2Te3. Here, we present a top-down approach starting from two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures to fabricate one-dimensional (1D) Bi2Te3/Fe1+yTe nanowires or narrow nanoribbons. We demonstrate that the Bi2Te3/Fe1+yTe heterostructure remains intact in nanostructures of widths on the order of 100 nm and the interfacial superconductivity is preserved, as evidenced by electrical transport and Andreev reflection point contact spectroscopy experiments measured at the end of the nanowire. The differential conductance shows a similar superconducting twin-gap structure as in two-dimensional heterostructures, but with enhanced fluctuation effects due to the lower dimensionality. A zero-bias conductance peak indicates the presence of an Andreev bound state and given the involvement of the topological Bi2Te3 surface state, we discuss a possible topological nature of superconductivity with strong interplay with an emerging ferromagnetism due to the interstitial excess iron in the Fe1+yTe layer, developing in parallel with superconductivity at low temperatures. △ Less

Submitted 1 December, 2022; v1 submitted 8 August, 2022; originally announced August 2022.

High Thermal Conductivity in Wafer Scale Cubic Silicon Carbide Crystals

Authors: Zhe Cheng, Jianbo Liang, Keisuke Kawamura, Hidetoshi Asamura, Hiroki Uratani, Samuel Graham, Yutaka Ohno, Yasuyoshi Nagai, Naoteru Shigekawa, David G. Cahill

Abstract: High thermal conductivity electronic materials are critical components for high-performance electronic and photonic devices as either active functional materials or thermal management materials. We report an isotropic high thermal conductivity over 500 W m-1K-1 at room temperature in high-quality wafer-scale cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC) crystals, which is the second highest among large crystals… ▽ More High thermal conductivity electronic materials are critical components for high-performance electronic and photonic devices as either active functional materials or thermal management materials. We report an isotropic high thermal conductivity over 500 W m-1K-1 at room temperature in high-quality wafer-scale cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC) crystals, which is the second highest among large crystals (only surpassed by diamond). Furthermore, the corresponding 3C-SiC thin films are found to have record-high in-plane and cross-plane thermal conductivity, even higher than diamond thin films with equivalent thicknesses. Our results resolve a long-lasting puzzle that the literature values of thermal conductivity for 3C-SiC are perplexingly lower than the structurally more complex 6H-SiC. Further analysis reveals that the observed high thermal conductivity in this work arises from the high purity and high crystal quality of 3C-SiC crystals which excludes the exceptionally strong defect-phonon scatterings in 3C-SiC. Moreover, by integrating 3C-SiC with other semiconductors by epitaxial growth, we show that the measured 3C-SiC-Si TBC is among the highest for semiconductor interfaces. These findings not only provide insights for fundamental phonon transport mechanisms, also suggest that 3C-SiC may constitute an excellent wide-bandgap semiconductor for applications of power electronics as either active components or substrates. △ Less

Submitted 11 July, 2022; originally announced July 2022.

Hybridization and Correlation between f- and d-orbital electrons in a valence fluctuating compound EuNi2P2

Authors: Z. X. Yin, X. Du, W. Z. Cao, J. Jiang, C. Chen, S. R. Duan, J. S. Zhou, X. Gu, R. Z. Xu, Q. Q. Zhang, W. X. Zhao, Y. D. Li, Yi-feng Yang, H. F. Yang, A. J. Liang, Z. K. Liu, H. Yao, Y. P. Qi, Y. L. Chen, L. X. Yang

Abstract: The interaction between localized f and itinerant conduction electrons is crucial in the electronic properties of heavy fermion and valence fluctuating compounds. Using high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, we systematically investigate the electronic structure of the archetypical valence fluctuating compound EuNi2P2 that hosts multiple f electrons. At low temperatures, we rev… ▽ More The interaction between localized f and itinerant conduction electrons is crucial in the electronic properties of heavy fermion and valence fluctuating compounds. Using high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, we systematically investigate the electronic structure of the archetypical valence fluctuating compound EuNi2P2 that hosts multiple f electrons. At low temperatures, we reveal the hybridization between Eu 4f and Ni 3d states, which contributes to the electron mass enhancement, consistent with the periodic Anderson model. With increasing temperature, interestingly, we observe opposite temperature evolution of electron spectral function above and below the Kondo coherence temperature near 110 K, which is in contrast to the monotonic valence change and beyond the expectation of the periodic Anderson model. We argue that both f-d hybridization and correlation are imperative in the electronic properties of EuNi2P2. Our results shed light on the understanding of novel properties, such as heavy fermion behaviors and valence fluctuation, of rare-earth transition-metal intermetallic compounds with multiple f electrons. △ Less

Submitted 26 June, 2022; originally announced June 2022.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 105, 245106 (2022)

Anisotropic Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction protected by D2d crystal symmetry in two-dimensional ternary compounds

Authors: Yonglong Ga, Qirui Cui, Yingmei Zhu, Dongxing Yu, Liming Wang, Jinghua Liang, Hongxin Yang

Abstract: Magnetic skyrmions, topologically protected chiral spin swirling quasiparticles, have attracted great attention in fundamental physics and applications. Recently, the discovery of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) magnets has aroused great interest due to their appealing physical properties. Moreover, both experimental and theoretical works have revealed that isotropic Dzyaloshinskii Moriya… ▽ More Magnetic skyrmions, topologically protected chiral spin swirling quasiparticles, have attracted great attention in fundamental physics and applications. Recently, the discovery of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) magnets has aroused great interest due to their appealing physical properties. Moreover, both experimental and theoretical works have revealed that isotropic Dzyaloshinskii Moriya interaction (DMI) can be achieved in 2D magnets or ferromagnet-based heterostructures. However, 2D magnets with anisotropic DMI haven't been reported yet. Here, via using first-principles calculations, we unveil that anisotropic DMI protected by D2d crystal symmetry can exist in 2D ternary compounds MCuX2. Interestingly, by using micromagnetic simulations, we demonstrate that ferromagnetic (FM) antiskyrmions, FM bimerons, antiferromagnetic (AFM) antiskyrmions and AFM bimerons can be realized in MCuX2 family. Our discovery opens up an avenue to creating antiskyrmions and bimerons with anisotropic DMI protected by D2d crystal symmetry in 2D magnets. △ Less

Submitted 13 June, 2022; originally announced June 2022.

Comments: Main text and supplementary materials attached

Journal ref: npj Computational Materials 8, 128, 2022

Visualization of Chiral Electronic Structure and Anomalous Optical Response in a Material with Chiral Charge Density Waves

Authors: H. F. Yang, K. Y. He, J. Koo, S. W. Shen, S. H. Zhang, G. Liu, Y. Z. Liu, C. Chen, A. J. Liang, K. Huang, M. X. Wang, J. J. Gao, X. Luo, L. X. Yang, J. P. Liu, Y. P. Sun, S. C. Yan, B. H. Yan, Y. L. Chen, X. Xi, Z. K. Liu

Abstract: Chiral materials have attracted significant research interests as they exhibit intriguing physical properties, such as chiral optical response, spin-momentum locking and chiral induced spin selectivity. Recently, layered transition metal dichalcogenide 1T-TaS2 has been found to host a chiral charge density wave (CDW) order. Nevertheless, the physical consequences of the chiral order, for example,… ▽ More Chiral materials have attracted significant research interests as they exhibit intriguing physical properties, such as chiral optical response, spin-momentum locking and chiral induced spin selectivity. Recently, layered transition metal dichalcogenide 1T-TaS2 has been found to host a chiral charge density wave (CDW) order. Nevertheless, the physical consequences of the chiral order, for example, in electronic structures and the optical properties, are yet to be explored. Here, we report the spectroscopic visualization of an emergent chiral electronic band structure in the CDW phase, characterized by windmill-shape Fermi surfaces. We uncover a remarkable chirality-dependent circularly polarized Raman response due to the salient chiral symmetry of CDW, although the ordinary circular dichroism vanishes. Chiral Fermi surfaces and anomalous Raman responses coincide with the CDW transition, proving their lattice origin. Our work paves a path to manipulate the chiral electronic and optical properties in two-dimensional materials and explore applications in polarization optics and spintronics. △ Less

Submitted 19 May, 2022; originally announced May 2022.