arXiv subjects

Alexandre C. Dias

Publications and source records attributed to Alexandre C. Dias.

15 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Exciton dynamics and high-temperature excitonic superfluidity in S-doped graphyne

S-doped graphyne (S-GY) is a recently synthesized two-dimensional graphyne-based carbon allotrope that provides a promising platform for exciton engineering and coherent many-body phases. Here, we investigate the quasiparticle electronic structure, optical response, and exciton dynamics of monolayer S-GY using the G$_0$W$_0$ approximation and the Bethe--Salpeter equation (BSE). Quasiparticle corrections increase the fundamental band gap from $0.88\,\text{eV}$ (PBE) to $1.95\,\text{eV}$, while slightly reducing the carrier effective masses. The BSE optical response reveals strongly bound excitons, with the lowest bright exciton exhibiting a binding energy of $0.72\,\text{eV}$, as well as a nearly degenerate dark exciton within the thermal energy scale. Analysis of exciton wavefunctions in reciprocal space confirms a hydrogenic Rydberg series with well-defined angular-momentum character, and radiative lifetimes in the nanosecond range at room temperature, comparable to those in transition-metal dichalcogenide monolayers. Finally, we construct the excitonic phase diagram and estimate a crossover density of $\sim6 \times10^{12}~\text{cm}^{-2}$, below which the exciton gas behaves as a dilute Bose system, and the Berezinskii--Kosterlitz--Thouless (BKT) superfluid phase becomes accessible. We estimate a maximum BKT transition temperature of $\sim 143\,\text{K}$ in the freestanding limit for the 1s exciton, indicating that monolayer S-GY may provide favorable conditions for high-temperature excitonic superfluidity in graphyne-based materials.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2026

Phase-Dependent Excitonic Light Harvesting and Photovoltaic Limits in Monolayer Y2TeO2 MOenes

We investigate phase-dependent electronic and excitonic phenomena in monolayer Y2TeO2 MOenes in the 1T and 2H polymorphs using first-principles theory and an effective many-body framework. Phonon spectra and elastic stability criteria establish both phases as dynamically and mechanically stable. Quasiparticle band structures reveal direct gaps in the near-infrared to visible range, with gap values increasing systematically from semilocal to hybrid exchange treatments. Optical spectra computed using a tight-binding Bethe-Salpeter approach demonstrate pronounced excitonic resonances arising from reduced dimensionality and weak dielectric screening. The exciton binding energies reach 152 meV in the 1T phase and 126 meV in the 2H phase, reflecting enhanced quantum confinement in the structurally denser phase. Our results identify Y2TeO2monolayers as a rare class of stable, direct-gap MOenes with strong excitonic effects, providing a platform for exploring many-body physics in low-dimensional oxychalcogenide systems especially for photovoltaic applications.

physics.comp-ph↗

arXiv2026

Interpretable, Physics-Informed Learning Reveals Sulfur Adsorption and Poisoning Mechanisms in 13-Atom Icosahedra Nanoclusters

Transition-metal nanoclusters exhibit structural and electronic properties that depend on their size, often making them superior to bulk materials for heterogeneous catalysis. However, their performance can be limited by sulfur poisoning. Here, we use dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT) and physics-informed machine learning to map how atomic sulfur adsorbs and causes poisoning on 13-atom icosahedral clusters from 30 different transition metals (3$d$ to 5$d$). We measure which sites sulfur prefers to adsorb to, the thermodynamics and energy breakdown, changes in structure, such as bond lengths and coordination, and electronic properties, such as $\varepsilon_d$, the HOMO-LUMO gap, and charge transfer. Vibrational analysis reveals true energy minima and provides ZPE-based descriptors that reflect the lattice stiffening upon sulfur adsorption. For most metals, the metal-sulfur interaction mainly determines adsorption energy. At the same time, distortion penalties are usually moderate but can be significant for a few metals, suggesting these are more likely to restructure when sulfur is adsorbed. Using unsupervised \textit{k}-means clustering, we identify periodic trends and group metals based on their adsorption responses. Supervised regression models with leave-one-feature-out analysis identify the descriptors that best predict adsorption for new samples. Our results highlight the isoelectronic triad \ce{Ti}, \ce{Zr}, and \ce{Hf} as a balanced group that combines strong sulfur binding with minimal structural change. Additional DFT calculations for \ce{SO2} adsorption reveal strong binding and a clear tendency toward dissociation on these clusters, linking electronic states, lattice response, and poisoning strength. These findings offer data-driven guidelines for designing sulfur-tolerant nanocatalysts at the subnanometer scale.

physics.atm-clus↗

arXiv2025

Kagome Topology in Two-Dimensional Noble-Metal Monolayers

Two-dimensional (2D) metallic lattices with kagome topology provide a unique platform for exploring the interplay between geometric frustration, reduced coordination, and lattice stability in elemental systems. Motivated by the recent experimental realization of atomically thin gold layers and kagome goldene, we present a first-principles investigation of free-standing kagome monolayers of Cu, Ag, and Au. Using density functional theory combined with lattice dynamics and ab initio molecular dynamics, we systematically assess their structural, mechanical, dynamical, and thermal stability. All kagome monolayers satisfy the 2D Born criteria and exhibit relatively low in-plane stiffness compared to graphene and hexagonal goldene, reflecting the porous nature of the kagome lattice and its metallic bonding. Among the three systems, the Au-based lattice displays the highest in-plane Young's modulus. Phonon calculations reveal that the unstrained kagome phase is dynamically unstable for all metals. However, a moderate biaxial tensile strain of 5% stabilizes the Ag and Au monolayers, while Cu retains residual unstable modes. Finite-temperature simulations further show that Cu rapidly reconstructs toward a trigonal lattice, Ag remains metastable at low temperature but collapses at room temperature, and Au exhibits competing kagome and trigonal motifs at 300 K, indicating near-degeneracy between these phases. These results establish that strain engineering and atomic size are key determinants of the stability of metallic kagome monolayers and provide guidance for future substrate-supported realizations.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

GENIUS: An Agentic AI Framework for Autonomous Design and Execution of Simulation Protocols

Predictive atomistic simulations have propelled materials discovery, yet routine setup and debugging still demand computer specialists. This know-how gap limits Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME), where state-of-the-art codes exist but remain cumbersome for non-experts. We address this bottleneck with GENIUS, an AI-agentic workflow that fuses a smart Quantum ESPRESSO knowledge graph with a tiered hierarchy of large language models supervised by a finite-state error-recovery machine. Here we show that GENIUS translates free-form human-generated prompts into validated input files that run to completion on $\approx$80% of 295 diverse benchmarks, where 76% are autonomously repaired, with success decaying exponentially to a 7% baseline. Compared with LLM-only baselines, GENIUS halves inference costs and virtually eliminates hallucinations. The framework democratizes electronic-structure DFT simulations by intelligently automating protocol generation, validation, and repair, opening large-scale screening and accelerating ICME design loops across academia and industry worldwide.

cs.AI↗

arXiv2025

Sodium-Decorated Ennea-Graphene: A Novel 2D Carbon Allotrope for High-Capacity Hydrogen Storage

The development of safe, efficient, and reversible hydrogen storage materials is critical for advancing hydrogen-based energy technologies and achieving carbon-neutral goals. Ennea-Graphene, a new 2D carbon allotrope made of 4-, 5-, 6-, and mainly 9-membered carbon rings (nonagons), is introduced via Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. Phonon dispersion and ab initio molecular dynamics demonstrate that the monolayer is mechanically and dynamically stable at 300 K, as no imaginary modes are detected. The pristine system further exhibits metallic-like electronic behavior. The material exhibits high in-plane stiffness (Young modulus of 255 N/m). Sodium adsorption at the centers of the nonagonal rings is energetically favorable, with a binding energy of approximately -1.56 eV, leading to the formation of the Na@Ennea-Graphene complex. The calculated H2 adsorption energies range from -0.15 eV to -0.18 eV. The Na-decorated structure demonstrates excellent hydrogen storage performance, reversibly adsorbing up to four H2 molecules per Na atom (8.8 wt\% H2). This capacity surpasses the U.S. Department of Energy's 2025 target for onboard hydrogen storage materials. The adsorbed H2 remains molecular (H-H bond of 0.76~\AA) and can be released under near-ambient conditions, as verified by 300 K ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. These findings position sodium-decorated Ennea-Graphene as a promising nanomaterial for next-generation hydrogen storage technologies.

physics.app-ph↗

arXiv2025

Towards High-Efficiency Solar Cells: Insights into AsNCa 3 Antiperovskite as Active Layer

Advances in photovoltaic technology are a viable route to contribute to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, placing perovskite-based materials among the best candidates for solar energy conversion. However, some challenges must be addressed to enhance their performance and stability. Herein, we report an investigation of the AsNCa3 antiperovskite system for its potential in photovoltaic devices. We consider eight distinct crystalline phases, their structural parameters, dynamical stability, and electronic and optical properties. Furthermore, we consider each structural phase's contributions to solar harvesting efficiency by calculating the power conversion efficiency (PCE) using the spectroscopiclimited maximum efficiency (SLME) formalism, which in this case reaches a maximum of 31.2%. All dynamically stable phases exhibit a band gap around 1.3 eV, which lies within the optimal range for single-junction solar cells and yields PCE values comparable to the theoretical maximum PCE for silicon. These results place AsNCa3 antiperovskites as promising candidates for high-efficiency photovoltaic applications. Notably, the PCE is only slightly changed by structural phase modification, suggesting that phase transitions induced by environmental conditions during device operation might not compromise device performance.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

Entangled Interlocked Diamond-like (Diamondiynes) Lattices

Diamondynes, a new class of diamond-like carbon allotropes composed of carbon with sp$^2$/sp$^3$-hybridized carbon networks, exhibit unique structural motifs that have not been previously reported in carbon materials. These architectures feature sublattices that are both interlocked and capable of relative movement. Using ab initio simulations, we have conducted an extensive investigation into the structural and electronic properties of five diamondyne structures. Our results show that diamondiynes are thermodynamically stable and exhibit wide electronic band gaps, from 2.2 eV to 4.0 eV. They are flexible yet highly resistant compared to other diamond-like structures. They have relatively small cohesive energy values, consistent with the fact that one diamondyne structure (2f-unsym) has already been experimentally realized. Our results provide new physical insights into diamond-like carbon networks and suggest promising directions for the development of porous, tunable frameworks with potential applications in energy storage and conversion.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

First-Principles and Machine Learning Investigation of the Structural and Optoelectronic Properties of Dodecaphenylyne: A Novel Carbon Allotrope

We report the computational discovery and characterization of Dodecaphenylyne (DP), a novel carbon allotrope with a distinctive geometric arrangement. DP structural, thermodynamic, mechanical, electronic, and optical properties were evaluated using density functional theory and a machine learning interatomic potential trained explicitly for this material. The formation energy of -7.98 eV/atom indicates high thermodynamic stability, further supported by the absence of imaginary phonon modes and the preservation of structural integrity up to 1000 K in ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Mechanical analysis reveals high in-plane stiffness with directional dependence: Young's modulus values of 469.09 GPa and 600.41 GPa along the x and y directions, respectively. Electronic band structure and projected density of states analyses confirm the DP semiconducting character. Calculations of carrier mobility using the deformation potential theory reveal pronounced anisotropy, with maximum values reaching up to $30.6 \times 10^4$ cm$^2$/V$\cdot$s (electrons, e) and $8.4 \times 10^4$ cm$^2$/V$\cdot$s (holes, h), much higher than the observed for other 2D materials. DP also exhibits anisotropic optical absorption in the visible and ultraviolet spectrum, highlighting its potential for optoelectronic applications.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

Petal-Graphyne: A Novel 2D Carbon Allotrope for High-Performance Li and Na Ion Storage

Using density functional theory simulations, this study introduces Petal-Graphyne (PLG), a novel multi-ring metallic structure composed of 4-, 8-, 10-, and 16-membered rings. Its structural, electronic, and lithium/sodium storage properties were comprehensively investigated. PLG exhibits a high theoretical capacity of 1004 mAh/g for Li, Na, and mixed Li/Na ions, surpassing conventional graphite anodes. The material remains metallic, with multiple band crossings at the Fermi level. The optimal energy barriers for Li (0.28 eV) and Na (0.25 eV) on PLG and favorable diffusion coefficients in both monolayer and multilayer configurations are unveiled. The open circuit voltages are 0.47 V for Li, 0.51 V for Na, and 0.54 V for mixed-ion storage, suggesting stable electrochemical performance. These results highlight PLG as a promising candidate for next-generation lithium and sodium-ion batteries, combining high storage capacity and efficient ion transport.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

Physicochemical Characterization of a New 2D Semiconductor Carbon Allotrope, C16: An Investigation via Density Functional Theory and Machine Learning-based Molecular Dynamics

This study comprehensively characterizes, with suggested applications, a novel two-dimensional carbon allotrope, C$_{16}$, using Density Functional Theory and machine learning-based molecular dynamics. This nanomaterial is derived from naphthalene and bicyclopropylidene molecules, forming a planar configuration with sp$^2$ hybridization and featuring 3-, 4-, 6-, 8-, and 10-membered rings. Cohesive energy of \SI{-7.1}{\electronvolt/atom}, absence of imaginary frequencies in the phonon spectrum, and the retention of the system's topology after ab initio molecular dynamics simulations confirm the structural stability of C$_{16}$. The nanomaterial exhibits a semiconducting behavior with a direct band gap of \SI{0.59}{\electronvolt} and anisotropic optical absorption in the $y$ direction. Assuming a complete absorption of incident light, it registers a power conversion efficiency of \SI{13}{\percent}, demonstrating relatively good potential for applications in solar energy conversion. The thermoelectric figure of merit ($zT$) reaches 0.8 at elevated temperatures, indicating a reasonable ability to convert a temperature gradient into electrical power. Additionally, C$_{16}$ demonstrates high mechanical strength, with Young's modulus values of \SI{500}{\giga\pascal} and \SI{630}{\giga\pascal} in the $x$ and $y$ directions, respectively. Insights into the electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and mechanical properties of C$_{16}$ reveal its promising capability for energy conversion applications.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

Computational Characterization of the Recently Synthesized Pristine and Porous 12-Atom-Wide Armchair Graphene Nanoribbon

Recently synthesized Porous 12-Atom-Wide Armchair Graphene Nanoribbons Nano Lett. 2024, 24, 10718-10723 exhibit tunable properties through periodic porosity, enabling precise control over their electronic, optical, thermal, and mechanical behavior. This work presents a comprehensive theoretical characterization of pristine and porous 12-AGNRs based on density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. DFT calculations reveal substantial electronic modifications, including band gap widening and the emergence of localized states. Analyzed within the Bethe-Salpeter equation (BSE) framework, optical properties highlight strong excitonic effects and significant absorption shifts. Thermal transport simulations indicate a pronounced reduction in conductivity due to enhanced phonon scattering at nanopores. At the same time, MD-based mechanical analysis shows decreased stiffness and strength while maintaining structural integrity. Despite these modifications, porous 12-AGNRs remain mechanically and thermally stable. These findings establish porosity engineering as a powerful strategy for tailoring graphene nanoribbons' functional properties, reinforcing their potential for nanoelectronic, optoelectronic, and thermal management applications.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

Exploring Novel 2D Analogues of Goldene: Electronic, Mechanical, and Optical Properties of Silverene and Copperene

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties and broad application potential. Building on the success of goldene, a monolayer lattice of gold atoms, we explore its proposed silver and copper analogs, silverene and copperene, using density functional theory calculations. Our findings reveal that silverene and copperene are energetically stable, with formation energies of -2.3 eV/atom and -3.1 eV/atom, closely matching goldene's -2.9 eV/atom. Phonon dispersion and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations confirm their structural and dynamical stability at room temperature, showing no bond breaking or structural reconfiguration. Mechanical analyses indicate isotropy, with Young's moduli of 73 N/m, 44 N/m, and 59 N/m for goldene, silverene, and copperene, respectively, alongside Poisson's ratios of 0.46, 0.42, and 0.41. These results suggest comparable rigidity and deformation characteristics. Electronic band structure analysis highlights their metallic nature, with variations in the band profiles at negative energy levels. Despite their metallic character, these materials exhibit optical properties akin to semiconductors, pointing to potential applications in optoelectronics.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2024

Raman Spectra and Excitonic Effects of the novel Ta$_2$Ni$_3$Te$_5$ Monolayer

We have investigated the Raman spectrum and excitonic effects of the novel two-dimensional Ta$_2$Ni$_3$Te$_5$ structure. The monolayer is an indirect band gap semiconductor with an electronic band gap value of 0.09 eV and 0.38 eV, determined using GGA-PBE and HSE06 exchange-correlation functionals, respectively. Since this structure is energetically, dynamically, and mechanically stable, it could be synthesized as a free-standing material. We identify ten Raman and ten infrared active modes for various laser energies, including those commonly used in Raman spectroscopy experiments. It was also observed that the contribution of Ni atoms is minimal in most Raman vibrational modes. In contrast, most infrared vibrational modes do not involve the vibration of the Ta atoms. As far as the optical properties are concerned, this monolayer shows a robust linear anisotropy, an exciton binding energy of 287 meV, and also presents a high reflectivity in the ultraviolet region, which is more intense for linear light polarization along the x-direction.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2024

On the mechanical, thermoelectric, and excitonic properties of Tetragraphene monolayer

Two-dimensional carbon allotropes have attracted much attention due to their extraordinary optoelectronic and mechanical properties, which can be exploited for energy conversion and storage applications. In this work, we use density functional theory simulations and semi-empirical methods to investigate the mechanical, thermoelectric, and excitonic properties of Tetrahexcarbon (also known as Tetragraphene). This quasi-2D carbon allotrope exhibits a combination of squared and hexagonal rings in a buckled shape. Our findings reveal that tetragraphene is a semiconductor material with a direct electronic bandgap of 2.66 eV. Despite the direct nature of the electronic band structure, this material has an indirect exciton ground state of 2.30 eV, which results in an exciton binding energy of 0.36 eV. At ambient temperature, we obtain that the lattice thermal conductivity for tetragraphene is approximately 118 W/mK. Young's modulus and the shear modulus of tetragraphene are almost isotropic, with maximum values of 286.0 N/m and 133.7 N/m, respectively, while exhibiting a very low anisotropic Poisson ratio value of 0.09.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗