Synthesis of Tunable SnS-TaS2 Nanoscale Superlattices
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.
- Publication:
-
Nano Letters
- Pub Date:
- October 2020
- DOI:
- 10.1021/acs.nanolett.0c02115
- arXiv:
- arXiv:2004.06862
- Bibcode:
- 2020NanoL..20.7059R
- Keywords:
-
- Condensed Matter - Materials Science
- E-Print:
- doi:10.1021/acs.nanolett.0c02115