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arXiv · 2606.11370

Reconfigurable Strain Gradient Polarity in Crystalline Oxide Nanomembranes for Controlled Bending of Functional Materials

Tiffany C. Wang·Minyong Han·Varun Harbola·Harold Y. Hwang
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Abstract

We report the fabrication and mechanical characterization of a "bubble" geometry for accessing local strain gradients using freestanding, single-crystalline manganite nanomembranes: a switchable bistable nanodrum, with opposite strain gradient polarities. By leveraging epitaxial strain as a source of pre-strain and with control of geometrical and mechanical boundary conditions, the fabricated device can support strain gradients with strain variation ranging from 0.01% to 1%. Switching energetics can be designed to configure the bubble morphology. By providing a mechanical framework for sustained strain gradients, this platform supports scalable oxide membrane applications such as the mechanical manipulation of magnetism, coupled to local probes.

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Tiffany C. Wang, Minyong Han, Varun Harbola, Harold Y. Hwang. 2026-06-09. Reconfigurable Strain Gradient Polarity in Crystalline Oxide Nanomembranes for Controlled Bending of Functional Materials. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsanm.6c01173

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