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arXiv · 2004.06862

Synthesis of tunable $SnS-TaS_2$ nanoscale superlattices

Dennice M. Roberts·Dylan Bardgett·John D. Perkins·Brian P. Gorman·Andriy Zakutayev·Sage R. Bauers
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Abstract

Nanoscale superlattices represent a compelling platform for designed materials as the specific identity and spatial arrangement of constituent layers can lead to tunable properties. A number of kinetically-stabilized layered chalcogenide nanocomposites have taken inspiration from misfit compounds, a thermodynamically stable class of materials formed of van der Waals-bonded (vdW) layers. This class of vdW heterostructure superlattices have been reported in telluride and selenide chemistries, but have not yet been extended to sulfides. Here we present $SnS-TaS_2$ nanoscale superlattices with tunable layer architecture. Thin films are prepared from layered amorphous precursors and deposited to mimic the targeted superlattice; subsequent low temperature annealing activates self-assembly into designed nanocomposites. Structure and composition for materials are investigated that span stacking sequences between $[(SnS)_{1+\delta}]_3(TaS_2)_1$ and $(SnS)_7(TaS_2)_1$ using x-ray diffraction, x-ray fluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy. A graded deposition approach is implemented to stabilize heterostructures of multiple stacking sequences with a single preparation. Precise control over the architecture of such nanoscale superlattices is a critical path towards controlling the properties of quantum materials and constituent devices.

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Dennice M. Roberts, Dylan Bardgett, John D. Perkins, Brian P. Gorman, Andriy Zakutayev, Sage R. Bauers. 2020-04-15. Synthesis of tunable $SnS-TaS_2$ nanoscale superlattices. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.0c02115

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