Strong interlayer interactions in two-dimensional pnictogen-based homo- and heterobilayers

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Janina Maultzsch, since 7/2024
• Subject Area: Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 535379461

The proposed project will use theoretical simulations to investigate the influence of the strong interaction in between bilayers of two-dimensional bilayers of antimony (Antimonene) or bismuth (Bismuthene) on their structural, electronic and optical properties in order to assess possibilities of accessing intermediate states between the limits of decoupled and fully interacting bilayers through tuning of the interlayer interaction. As possible tuning knobs, we will consider (i) distance control through increase or decrease of the interlayer separation in pnictogen homobilayers, and (ii) manipulation of the twist angle between two material layers, which might induce a strong bandgap variation and/or give rise to flat bands or otherwise morphologically-induced electronic states. Besides homobilayer systems, we will also study the influence of interlayer interaction and possible tunability of the electronic and optical properties in pnictogen-based heterobilayers, e.g. antimonene/InSe heterobilayers, which are interesting as optical materials in photodetectors or solar cells. Finally, we will assess the effect, positive or negative, of oxide surface layers on the intruiging electronic properties of antimonene, which might have implications for the suitability of antimonene for practical applications.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 2244: 2D Materials – Physics of van der Waals [hetero]structures (2DMP)
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Dr. Roland Gillen, until 7/2024