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“Inter-ribbon tunneling in graphene: An atomistic Bardeen approach”. Van de Put ML, Vandenberghe WG, Sorée B, Magnus W, Fischetti MV, Journal of applied physics 119, 214306 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4953148
Abstract: A weakly coupled system of two crossed graphene nanoribbons exhibits direct tunneling due to the overlap of the wavefunctions of both ribbons. We apply the Bardeen transfer Hamiltonian formalism, using atomistic band structure calculations to account for the effect of the atomic structure on the tunneling process. The strong quantum-size confinement of the nanoribbons is mirrored by the one-dimensional character of the electronic structure, resulting in properties that differ significantly from the case of inter-layer tunneling, where tunneling occurs between bulk two-dimensional graphene sheets. The current-voltage characteristics of the inter-ribbon tunneling structures exhibit resonance, as well as stepwise increases in current. Both features are caused by the energetic alignment of one-dimensional peaks in the density-of-states of the ribbons. Resonant tunneling occurs if the sign of the curvature of the coupled energy bands is equal, whereas a step-like increase in the current occurs if the signs are opposite. Changing the doping modulates the onset-voltage of the effects as well as their magnitude. Doping through electrostatic gating makes these structures promising for application towards steep slope switching devices. Using the atomistic empirical pseudopotentials based Bardeen transfer Hamiltonian method, inter-ribbon tunneling can be studied for the whole range of two-dimensional materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides. The effects of resonance and of step-like increases in the current we observe in graphene ribbons are also expected in ribbons made from these alternative two-dimensional materials, because these effects are manifestations of the one-dimensional character of the density-of-states. Published by AIP Publishing.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1063/1.4953148
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“Interface control by chemical and dimensional matching in an oxide heterostructure”. O'Sullivan M, Hadermann J, Dyer MS, Turner S, Alaria J, Manning TD, Abakumov AM, Claridge JB, Rosseinsky MJ, Nature chemistry 8, 347 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1038/NCHEM.2441
Abstract: Interfaces between different materials underpin both new scientific phenomena, such as the emergent behaviour at oxide interfaces, and key technologies, such as that of the transistor. Control of the interfaces between materials with the same crystal structures but different chemical compositions is possible in many materials classes, but less progress has been made for oxide materials with different crystal structures. We show that dynamical self-organization during growth can create a coherent interface between the perovskite and fluorite oxide structures, which are based on different structural motifs, if an appropriate choice of cations is made to enable this restructuring. The integration of calculation with experimental observation reveals that the interface differs from both the bulk components and identifies the chemical bonding requirements to connect distinct oxide structures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 25.87
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1038/NCHEM.2441
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“Intrinsic tailing of resistive states distributions in amorphous <tex>HfOx </tex>, and TaOx based resistive random access memories”. Clima S, Chen YY, Fantini A, Goux L, Degraeve R, Govoreanu B, Pourtois G, Jurczak M, IEEE electron device letters 36, 769 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1109/LED.2015.2448731
Abstract: We report on the ineffectiveness of programming oxide-based resistive random access memory (OxRAM) at low current with a program and verify algorithm due to intrinsic relaxation of the verified distribution to the natural state distribution obtained by single-pulse programming without verify process. Based on oxygen defect formation thermodynamics and on their diffusion barriers in amorphous HfOx and TaOx, we describe the intrinsic nature of tailing of the verified low resistive state and high resistive state distributions. We introduce different scenarios to explain fast distribution widening phenomenon, which is a fundamental limitation for OxRAM current scaling and device reliability.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.048
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1109/LED.2015.2448731
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“Large gap electron-hole superfluidity and shape resonances in coupled graphene nanoribbons”. Zarenia M, Perali A, Peeters FM, Neilson D, Scientific reports 6, 24860 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1038/srep24860
Abstract: We predict enhanced electron-hole superfluidity in two coupled electron-hole armchair-edge terminated graphene nanoribbons separated by a thin insulating barrier. In contrast to graphene monolayers, the multiple subbands of the nanoribbons are parabolic at low energy with a gap between the conduction and valence bands, and with lifted valley degeneracy. These properties make screening of the electron-hole interaction much weaker than for coupled electron-hole monolayers, thus boosting the pairing strength and enhancing the superfluid properties. The pairing strength is further boosted by the quasi one-dimensional quantum confinement of the carriers, as well as by the large density of states near the bottom of each subband. The latter magnifies superfluid shape resonances caused by the quantum confinement. Several superfluid partial condensates are present for finite-width nanoribbons with multiple subbands. We find that superfluidity is predominately in the strongly-coupled BEC and BCS-BEC crossover regimes, with large superfluid gaps up to 100 meV and beyond. When the gaps exceed the subband spacing, there is significant mixing of the subbands, a rounding of the shape resonances, and a resulting reduction in the one-dimensional nature of the system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.259
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1038/srep24860
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“Majorana zero-energy modes and spin current evolution in mesoscopic superconducting loop systems with spin-orbit interaction”. Zha G-Q, Covaci L, Peeters FM, Zhou S-P, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 92, 094516 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.92.094516
Abstract: The Majorana zero modes and persistent spin current in mesoscopic d-wave-superconducting loops with spin-orbit (SO) interaction are investigated by numerically solving the spin-generalized Bogoliubov-de Gennes equations self-consistently. For some appropriate strength of the SO coupling, Majorana zero-energy states and sharp jumps of the spin-polarized currents can be observed when the highest energy levels cross the Fermi energy in the spectrum, leading to spin currents with opposite chirality flowing near the inner and outer edges of the sample. When the threaded magnetic flux turns on, four flux-dependent patterns of the persistent spin current with step-like features show up, accompanied by Majorana edge modes at flux values where the energy gap closes. Moreover, the Majorana zero mode is highly influenced by the direction of the Zeeman field. A finite in-plane field can lead to the gap opening since the inversion symmetry is broken. Remarkably, multiple Majorana zero-energy states occur in the presence of an out-of-plane field h(z), and the number of steps in the spin current evolution can be effectively tuned by the field strength due to the shift of Majorana zero modes. Finally, when the loop sample contains surface indentation defects, zero-energy modes can always show up in the presence of an appropriate h(z). Interestingly, multiple Majorana states may be present in the system with a corner defect even if h(z) = 0.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.92.094516
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“Mechanical properties of monolayer sulphides : a comparative study between MoS2, HfS2 and TiS3”. Kang J, Sahin H, Peeters FM, Physical chemistry, chemical physics 17, 27742 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5cp04576b
Abstract: The in-plane stiffness (C), Poisson's ratio (nu), Young's modulus and ultimate strength (sigma) along two different crystallographic orientations are calculated for the single layer crystals: MoS2, HfS2 and TiS3 in 1H, 1T and monoclinic phases. We find that MoS2 and HfS2 have isotropic in-plane stiffnesses of 124.24 N m(-1) and 79.86 N m(-1), respectively. While for TiS3 the in-plane stiffness is highly anisotropic due to its monoclinic structure, with C-x = 83.33 N m(-1) and C-y = 133.56 N m(-1) (x and y are parallel to its longer and shorter in-plane lattice vectors.). HfS2 which is in the 1T phase has the smallest anisotropy in its ultimate strength, whereas TiS3 in the monoclinic phase has the largest. Along the armchair direction MoS2 has the largest sigma of 23.48 GPa, whereas along y TiS3 has the largest sigma of 18.32 GPa. We have further analyzed the band gap response of these materials under uniaxial tensile strain, and find that they exhibit different behavior. Along both armchair and zigzag directions, the band gap of MoS2 (HfS2) decreases (increases) as strain increases, and the response is almost isotropic. For TiS3, the band gap decreases when strain is along x, while if strain is along y, the band gap increases first and then decreases beyond a threshold strain value. The different characteristics observed in these sulphides with different structures shed light on the relationship between the structure and properties, which is useful for applications in nanotechnology.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.123
Times cited: 83
DOI: 10.1039/c5cp04576b
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“Modeling of inter-ribbon tunneling in graphene”. Van de Put ML, Vandenberghe WG, Magnus W, Sorée B, Fischetti MV, 18th International Workshop On Computational Electronics (iwce 2015) (2015)
Abstract: The tunneling current between two crossed graphene ribbons is described invoking the empirical pseudopotential approximation and the Bardeen transfer Hamiltonian method. Results indicate that the density of states is the most important factor determining the tunneling current between small (similar to nm) ribbons. The quasi-one dimensional nature of graphene nanoribbons is shown to result in resonant tunneling.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
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“Multilayer MoS2 growth by metal and metal oxide sulfurization”. Heyne MH, Chiappe D, Meersschaut J, Nuytten T, Conard T, Bender H, Huyghebaert C, Radu IP, Caymax M, de Marneffe JF, Neyts EC, De Gendt S;, Journal of materials chemistry C : materials for optical and electronic devices 4, 1295 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5tc04063a
Abstract: We investigated the deposition of MoS2 multilayers on large area substrates. The pre-deposition of metal or metal oxide with subsequent sulfurization is a promising technique to achieve layered films. We distinguish a different reaction behavior in metal oxide and metallic films and investigate the effect of the temperature, the H2S/H-2 gas mixture composition, and the role of the underlying substrate on the material quality. The results of the experiments suggest a MoS2 growth mechanism consisting of two subsequent process steps. At first, the reaction of the sulfur precursor with the metal or metal oxide occurs, requiring higher temperatures in the case of metallic film compared to metal oxide. At this stage, the basal planes assemble towards the diffusion direction of the reaction educts and products. After the sulfurization reaction, the material recrystallizes and the basal planes rearrange parallel to the substrate to minimize the surface energy. Therefore, substrates with low roughness show basal plane assembly parallel to the substrate. These results indicate that the substrate character has a significant impact on the assembly of low dimensional MoS2 films.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 5.256
DOI: 10.1039/c5tc04063a
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“N-doped graphene : polarization effects and structural properties”. Ghorbanfekr-Kalashami H, Neek-Amal M, Peeters FM, Physical review B 93, 174112 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.93.174112
Abstract: The structural and mechanical properties of N-doped graphene (NG) are investigated using reactive force field (ReaxFF) potentials in large-scale molecular dynamics simulations. We found that ripples, which are induced by the dopants, change the roughness of NG, which depends on the number of dopants and their local arrangement. For any doping ratio N/C, the NG becomes ferroelectric with a net dipole moment. The formation energy increases nonlinearly with N/C ratio, while the Young's modulus, tensile strength, and intrinsic strain decrease with the number of dopants. Our results for the structural deformation and the thermoelectricity of the NG sheet are in good agreement with recent experiments and ab initio calculations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.93.174112
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“New family of graphene-based organic semiconductors : an investigation of photon-induced electronic structure manipulation in half-fluorinated graphene”. Walter AL, Sahin H, Kang J, Jeon KJ, Bostwick A, Horzum S, Moreschini L, Chang YJ, Peeters FM, Horn K, Rotenberg E;, Physical review B 93, 075439 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.93.075439
Abstract: The application of graphene to electronic and optoelectronic devices is limited by the absence of reliable semiconducting variants of this material. A promising candidate in this respect is graphene oxide, with a band gap on the order of similar to 5 eV, however, this has a finite density of states at the Fermi level. Here, we examine the electronic structure of three variants of half-fluorinated carbon on Sic(0001), i.e., the (6 root 3 x 6 root 3) R30 degrees C/SiC “buffer layer,” graphene on this (6 root 3 x 6 root 3) R30 degrees C/SiC buffer layer, and graphene decoupled from the SiC substrate by hydrogen intercalation. Using angle-resolved photoemission, core level photoemission, and x-ray absorption, we show that the electronic, chemical, and physical structure of all three variants is remarkably similar, exhibiting a large band gap and a vanishing density of states at the Fermi level. These results are explained in terms of first-principles calculations. This material thus appears very suitable for applications, even more so since it is prepared on a processing-friendly substrate. We also investigate two separate UV photon-induced modifications of the electronic structure that transform the insulating samples (6.2-eV band gap) into semiconducting (similar to 2.5-eV band gap) and metallic regions, respectively.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.93.075439
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“Nitrogenated, phosphorated and arsenicated monolayer holey graphenes”. Yagmurcukardes M, Horzum S, Torun E, Peeters FM, Senger RT, Physical chemistry, chemical physics 18, 3144 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5cp05538e
Abstract: Motivated by a recent experiment that reported the synthesis of a new 2D material nitrogenated holey graphene (C2N) [Mahmood et al., Nat. Commun., 2015, 6, 6486], the electronic, magnetic, and mechanical properties of nitrogenated (C2N), phosphorated (C2P) and arsenicated (C2As) monolayer holey graphene structures are investigated using first-principles calculations. Our total energy calculations indicate that, similar to the C2N monolayer, the formation of the other two holey structures are also energetically feasible. Calculated cohesive energies for each monolayer show a decreasing trend going from the C2N to C2As structure. Remarkably, all the holey monolayers considered are direct band gap semiconductors. Regarding the mechanical properties (in-plane stiffness and Poisson ratio), we find that C2N has the highest in-plane stiffness and the largest Poisson ratio among the three monolayers. In addition, our calculations reveal that for the C2N, C2P and C2As monolayers, creation of N and P defects changes the semiconducting behavior to a metallic ground state while the inclusion of double H impurities in all holey structures results in magnetic ground states. As an alternative to the experimentally synthesized C2N, C2P and C2As are mechanically stable and flexible semiconductors which are important for potential applications in optoelectronics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.123
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1039/c5cp05538e
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“On improving accuracy of finite-element solutions of the effective-mass Schrodinger equation for interdiffused quantum wells and quantum wires”. Topalovic DB, Arsoski VV, Pavlovic S, Cukaric NA, Tadic MZ, Peeters FM, Communications in theoretical physics 65, 105 (2016)
Abstract: We use the Galerkin approach and the finite-element method to numerically solve the effective-mass Schrodinger equation. The accuracy of the solution is explored as it varies with the range of the numerical domain. The model potentials are those of interdiffused semiconductor quantum wells and axially symmetric quantum wires. Also, the model of a linear harmonic oscillator is considered for comparison reasons. It is demonstrated that the absolute error of the electron ground state energy level exhibits a minimum at a certain domain range, which is thus considered to be optimal. This range is found to depend on the number of mesh nodes N approximately as alpha(0) log(e)(alpha 1) (alpha N-2), where the values of the constants alpha(0), alpha(1), and alpha(2) are determined by fitting the numerical data. And the optimal range is found to be a weak function of the diffusion length. Moreover, it was demonstrated that a domain range adaptation to the optimal value leads to substantial improvement of accuracy of the solution of the Schrodinger equation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 0.989
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“One-pot synthesis of carbon-coated nanostructured iron oxide on few-layer graphene for lithium-ion batteries”. Sun Z, Madej E, Wiktor, Sinev I, Fischer RA, Van Tendeloo G, Muhler M, Schuhmann W, Ventosa E, Chemistry: a European journal 21, 16154 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1002/chem.201501935
Abstract: Nanostructure engineering has been demonstrated to improve the electrochemical performance of iron oxide based electrodes in Li-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the synthesis of advanced functional materials often requires multiple steps. Herein, we present a facile one-pot synthesis of carbon-coated nanostructured iron oxide on few-layer graphene through high-pressure pyrolysis of ferrocene in the presence of pristine graphene. The ferrocene precursor supplies both iron and carbon to form the carbon-coated iron oxide, while the graphene acts as a high-surface-area anchor to achieve small metal oxide nanoparticles. When evaluated as a negative-electrode material for LIBs, our composite showed improved electrochemical performance compared to commercial iron oxide nanopowders, especially at fast charge/discharge rates.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.317
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1002/chem.201501935
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“Optical and photoelectrical properties of nanocrystalline indium oxide with small grains”. Forsh EA, Abakumov AM, Zaytsev VB, Konstantinova EA, Forsh PA, Rumyantseva MN, Gaskov AM, Kashkarov PK, Thin solid films : an international journal on the science and technology of thin and thick films 595, 25 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsf.2015.10.053
Abstract: Optical properties, spectral dependence of photoconductivity and photoconductivity decay in nanocrystalline indium oxide In2O3 are studied. A number of nanostructured In2O3 samples with various nanocrystals size are prepared by sol-gel method and characterized using various techniques. The mean nanocrystals size varies from 7 to 8 nm to 39-41 nm depending on the preparation conditions. Structural characterization of the In2O3 samples is performed by means of transmission electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. The combined analysis of ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy shows that nanostructuring leads to the change in optical band gap: optical band gap of the In2O3 samples (with an average nanocrystal size from 7 to 41 nm) is equal to 2.8 eV. We find out the correlation between spectral dependence of photoconductivity and optical properties of nanocrystalline In2O3: sharp increase in photoconductivity was observed to begin at 2.8 eV that is equal to the optical bandgap in the In2O3 samples, and reached its maximum at 3.2-3.3 eV. The combined analysis of the slow photoconductivity decay in air, vacuum and argon, that was accurately fitted by a stretched-exponential function, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements shows that the kinetics of photoconductivity decay is strongly depended on the presence of oxygen molecules in the ambient of In2O3 nanocrystals. There is the quantitative correlation between EPR and photoconductivity data. Based on the obtained data we propose the model clearing up the phenomenon of permanent photoconductivity decay in nanocrystalline In2O3. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.879
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2015.10.053
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“Optical properties of GaS-Ca(OH)2 bilayer heterostructure”. Torun E, Sahin H, Peeters FM, Physical review B 93, 075111 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.93.075111
Abstract: Finding novel atomically thin heterostructures and understanding their characteristic properties are critical for developing better nanoscale optoelectronic devices. In this study, we investigate the electronic and optical properties of a GaS-Ca(OH)(2) heterostructure using first-principle calculations. The band gap of the GaS-Ca(OH)(2) heterostructure is significantly reduced when compared to those of the isolated constituent layers. Our calculations showthat the GaS-Ca(OH)(2) heterostructure is a type-II heterojunction which can be used to separate photoinduced charge carriers where electrons are localized in GaS and holes in the Ca(OH)(2) layer. This leads to spatially indirect excitons which are important for solar energy and optoelectronic applications due to their long lifetime. By solving the Bethe-Salpeter equation on top of a single shot GW calculation (G(0)W(0)), the dielectric function and optical oscillator strength of the constituent monolayers and the heterostructure are obtained. The oscillator strength of the optical transition for the GaS monolayer is an order of magnitude larger than the Ca(OH)(2) monolayer. We also found that the calculated optical spectra of different stacking types of the heterostructure show dissimilarities, although their electronic structures are rather similar. This prediction can be used to determine the stacking type of ultrathin heterostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.93.075111
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“Peculiar piezoelectric properties of soft two-dimensional materials”. Sevik C, Çakir D, Gulseren O, Peeters FM, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 120, 13948 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.6b03543
Abstract: Group II-VI semiconductor honeycomb monolayers have a noncentrosymmetric crystal structure and therefore are expected to be important for nano piezoelectric device applications. This motivated us to perform first principles calculations based on density functional theory to unveil the piezoelectric properties (i.e., piezoelectric stress (e(11)) and piezoelectric strain (d(11)) coefficients) of these monolayer materials with chemical formula MX (where M = Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Zr, Cd and X = S, Se, Te). We found that these two-dimensional materials have peculiar piezoelectric properties with d(11) coefficients 1 order of magnitude larger than those of commercially utilized bulk materials. A clear trend in their piezoelectric properties emerges, which
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 39
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.6b03543
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“Pentagonal monolayer crystals of carbon, boron nitride, and silver azide”. Yagmurcukardes M, Sahin H, Kang J, Torun E, Peeters FM, Senger RT, Journal of applied physics 118, 104303 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4930086
Abstract: In this study, we present a theoretical investigation of structural, electronic, and mechanical properties of pentagonal monolayers of carbon (p-graphene), boron nitride (p-B2N4 and p-B4N2), and silver azide (p-AgN3) by performing state-of-the-art first principles calculations. Our total energy calculations suggest feasible formation of monolayer crystal structures composed entirely of pentagons. In addition, electronic band dispersion calculations indicate that while p-graphene and p-AgN3 are semiconductors with indirect bandgaps, p-BN structures display metallic behavior. We also investigate the mechanical properties (in-plane stiffness and the Poisson's ratio) of four different pentagonal structures under uniaxial strain. p-graphene is found to have the highest stiffness value and the corresponding Poisson's ratio is found to be negative. Similarly, p-B2N4 and p-B4N2 have negative Poisson's ratio values. On the other hand, the p-AgN3 has a large and positive Poisson's ratio. In dynamical stability tests based on calculated phonon spectra of these pentagonal monolayers, we find that only p-graphene and p-B2N4 are stable, but p-AgN3 and p-B4N2 are vulnerable against vibrational excitations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 79
DOI: 10.1063/1.4930086
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“Phonon limited superconducting correlations in metallic nanograins”. Croitoru MD, Shanenko AA, Vagov A, Milošević, MV, Axt VM, Peeters FM, Scientific reports 5, 16515 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1038/srep16515
Abstract: Conventional superconductivity is inevitably suppressed in ultra-small metallic grains for characteristic sizes smaller than the Anderson limit. Experiments have shown that above the Anderson limit the critical temperature may be either enhanced or reduced when decreasing the particle size, depending on the superconducting material. In addition, there is experimental evidence that whether an enhancement or a reduction is found depends on the strength of the electronphonon interaction in the bulk. We reveal how the strength of the e-ph interaction interplays with the quantum-size effect and theoretically obtain the critical temperature of the superconducting nanograins in excellent agreement with experimental data. We demonstrate that strong e-ph scattering smears the peak structure in the electronic density-of-states of a metallic grain and enhances the electron mass, and thereby limits the highest T-c achievable by quantum confinement.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.259
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1038/srep16515
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“Physical and electrical characterization of high-performance Cu2ZnSnSe4 based thin film solar cells”. Oueslati S, Brammertz G, Buffiere M, ElAnzeery H, Touayar O, Koeble C, Bekaert J, Meuris M, Poortmans J, Thin solid films : an international journal on the science and technology of thin and thick films 582, 224 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsf.2014.10.052
Abstract: We report on the electrical, optical and physical properties of Cu2ZnSnSe4 solar cells using an absorber layer fabricated by selenization of sputtered Cu, Zn and Cu10Sn90 multilayers. A maximum active-area conversion efficiency of 10.4% under AM1.5G was measured with a maximum short circuit current density of 39.7 mA/cm(2), an open circuit voltage of 394 mV and a fill factor of 66.4%. We perform electrical and optical characterization using photoluminescence spectroscopy, external quantum efficiency, current-voltage and admittance versus temperature measurements in order to derive information about possible causes for the low open circuit voltage values observed. The main defects derived from these measurements are strong potential fluctuations in the absorber layer as well as a potential barrier of the order of 133 meV at the back side contact. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.879
Times cited: 49
DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2014.10.052
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“Position-dependent effect of non-magnetic impurities on superconducting properties of nanowires”. Zhang L-F, Covaci L, Peeters FM, Europhysics letters 109, 17010 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1209/0295-5075/109/17010
Abstract: Anderson's theorem states that non-magnetic impurities do not change the bulk properties of conventional superconductors. However, as the dimensionality is reduced, the effect of impurities becomes more significant. Here we investigate superconducting nanowires with diameter comparable to the Fermi wavelength $\lambda_F$ (which is less than the superconducting coherence length) by using a microscopic description based on the Bogoliubov-de Gennes method. We find that: 1) impurities strongly affect the superconducting properties, 2) the effect is impurity position dependent, and 3) it exhibits opposite behavior for resonant and off-resonant wire widths. We show that this is due to the interplay between the shape resonances of the order parameter and the subband energy spectrum induced by the lateral quantum confinement. These effects can be used to manipulate the Josephson current, filter electrons by subband and investigate the symmetries of the superconducting subband gaps.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.957
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1209/0295-5075/109/17010
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“Process variability in Cu2ZnSnSe4 solar cell devices: Electrical and structural investigations”. Brammertz G, Buffiere M, Verbist C, Bekaert J, Batuk M, Hadermann J, et al, The conference record of the IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference
T2 –, IEEE 42nd Photovoltaic Specialist Conference (PVSC), JUN 14-19, 2015, New Orleans, LA (2015)
Abstract: We have fabricated 9.7% efficient Cu2ZnSnSe4/CdS/ZnO solar cells by H2Se selenization of sequentially sputtered metal layers. Despite the good efficiency obtained, process control appears to be difficult. In the present contribution we compare the electrical and physical properties of two devices with nominal same fabrication procedure, but 1% and 9.7% power conversion efficiency respectively. We identify the problem of the lower performing device to be the segregation of ZnSe phases at the backside of the sample. This ZnSe seems to be the reason for the strong bias dependent photocurrent observed in the lower performing devices, as it adds a potential barrier for carrier collection. The reason for the different behavior of the two nominally same devices is not fully understood, but speculated to be related to sputtering variability.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
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“Quantum effects in a free-standing graphene lattice : path-integral against classical Monte Carlo simulations”. Brito BGA, Candido L, Hai G-Q, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 92, 195416 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.92.195416
Abstract: In order to study quantum effects in a two-dimensional crystal lattice of a free-standing monolayer graphene, we have performed both path-integral Monte Carlo (PIMC) and classical Monte Carlo (MC) simulations for temperatures up to 2000 K. The REBO potential is used for the interatomic interaction. The total energy, interatomic distance, root-mean-square displacement of the atom vibrations, and the free energy of the graphene layer are calculated. The obtained lattice vibrational energy per atom from the classical MC simulation is very close to the energy of a three-dimensional harmonic oscillator 3k(B)T. The PIMC simulation shows that quantum effects due to zero-point vibrations are significant for temperatures T < 1000 K. The quantum contribution to the lattice vibrational energy becomes larger than that of the classical lattice for T < 400 K. The lattice expansion due to the zero-point motion causes an increase of 0.53% in the lattice parameter. A minimum in the lattice parameter appears at T similar or equal to 500 K. Quantum effects on the atomic vibration amplitude of the graphene lattice and its free energy are investigated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 22
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.92.195416
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“Quantum magnetotransport properties of a MoS2 monolayer”. Tahir M, Vasilopoulos P, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 93, 035406 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.93.035406
Abstract: We study transport properties of a MoS2 monolayer in the presence of a perpendicular magnetic field B. We derive and discuss its band structure and take into account spin and valley Zeeman effects. Compared to a conventional two-dimensional electron gas, these effects lead to new quantum Hall plateaus and new peaks in the longitudinal resistivity as functions of the magnetic field. The field B leads to a significant enhancement of the spin splitting in the conduction band, to a beating of the Shubnikov-de Haas (SdH) oscillations in the low-field regime, and to their splitting in the high-field regime. The Zeeman fields suppress significantly the beating of the SdH oscillations in the low-field regime and strongly enhance their splitting at high fields. The spin and valley polarizations show a similar beating pattern at low fields and are clearly separated at high fields in which they attain a value higher than 90%.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 42
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.93.035406
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“Quantum tunneling between bent semiconductor nanowires”. de Sousa AA, Chaves A, Pereira TAS, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Journal of applied physics 118, 174301 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4934646
Abstract: We theoretically investigate the electronic transport properties of two closely spaced L-shaped semiconductor quantum wires, for different configurations of the output channel widths as well as the distance between the wires. Within the effective-mass approximation, we solve the time-dependent Schrodinger equation using the split-operator technique that allows us to calculate the transmission probability, the total probability current, the conductance, and the wave function scattering between the energy subbands. We determine the maximum distance between the quantum wires below which a relevant non-zero transmission is still found. The transmission probability and the conductance show a strong dependence on the width of the output channel for small distances between the wires. (C) 2015 AIP Publishing LLC.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1063/1.4934646
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“Quench dynamics of an ultracold Fermi gas in the BCS regime : spectral properties and confinement-induced breakdown of the Higgs mode”. Hannibal S, Kettmann P, Croitoru MD, Vagov A, Axt VM, Kuhn T, Physical review : A : atomic, molecular and optical physics 91, 043630 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.91.043630
Abstract: The Higgs amplitude mode of the order parameter of an ultracold confined Fermi gas in the BCS regime after a quench of the coupling constant is analyzed theoretically. A characteristic feature is a damped oscillation which at a certain transition time changes into a rather irregular dynamics. We compare the numerical solution of the full set of nonlinear equations of motion for the normal and anomalous Bogoliubov quasiparticle excitations with a linearized approximation. In doing so the transition time as well as the difference between resonant systems, i.e., systems where the Fermi energy is close to a sub-band minimum, and off-resonant systems can be well understood and traced back to the system and geometry parameters.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.925
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevA.91.043630
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“RAMS and WRF sensitivity to grid spacing in large-eddy simulations of the dry convective boundary layer”. Ercolani G, Gorle C, Garcia Sánchez C, Corbari C, Mancini M, Computers and fluids 123, 54 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.compfluid.2015.09.009
Abstract: Large-eddy simulations (LESS) are frequently used to model the planetary boundary layer, and the choice of the grid cell size, numerical schemes and sub grid model can significantly influence the simulation results. In the present paper the impact of grid spacing on LES of an idealized atmospheric convective boundary layer (CBL), for which the statistics and flow structures are well understood, is assessed for two mesoscale models: the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) and the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF). Nine simulations are performed on a fixed computational domain (6 x 6 x 2 km), combining three different horizontal (120, 60, 30 m) and vertical (20, 10, 5 m) spacings. The impact of the cell size on the CBL is investigated by comparing turbulence statistics and velocity spectra. The results demonstrate that both WRF and RAMS can perform LES of the CBL under consideration without requiring extremely high computational loads, but they also indicate the importance of adopting a computational grid that is adequate for the numerical schemes and subgrid models used. In both RAMS and WRF a horizontal cell size of 30 m is required to obtain a suitable turbulence reproduction throughout the CBL height. Considering the vertical grid spacing, WRF produced similar results for all the three tested values, while in RAMS it should be ensured that the aspect ratio of the cells does not exceed a value of 3. The two models were found to behave differently in function of the grid resolution, and they have different shortcomings in their prediction of CBL turbulence. WRF exhibits enhanced damping at the smallest scales, while RAMS is prone to the appearance of spurious fluctuations in the flow when the grid aspect ratio is too high. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.313
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/j.compfluid.2015.09.009
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“Rationalizing the influence of the Mn(IV)/Mn(III) red-Ox transition on the electrocatalytic activity of manganese oxides in the oxygen reduction reaction”. Ryabova AS, Napolskiy FS, Poux T, Istomin SY, Bonnefont A, Antipin DM, Baranchikov AY, Levin EE, Abakumov AM, Kéranguéven G, Antipov EV, Tsirlina GA, Savinova ER;, Electrochimica acta 187, 161 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.electacta.2015.11.012
Abstract: Knowledge on the mechanisms of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and descriptors linking the catalytic activity to the structural and electronic properties of transition metal oxides enable rational design of more efficient catalysts. In this work ORR electrocatalysis was studied on a set of single and complex Mn (III) oxides with a rotating disc electrode method and cyclic voltammetry. We discovered an exponential increase of the specific electrocatalytic activity with the potential of the surface Mn(IV)/Mn(III) red-ox couple, suggesting the latter as a new descriptor for the ORR electrocatalysis. The observed dependence is rationalized using a simple mean-field kinetic model considering availability of the Mn( III) centers and adsorbate-adsorbate interactions. We demonstrate an unprecedented activity of Mn2O3, ca. 40 times exceeding that of MnOOH and correlate the catalytic activity of Mn oxides to their crystal structure. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.798
Times cited: 51
DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2015.11.012
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“Reentrant dynamics of driven pancake vortices in layered superconductors”. Zhao HJ, Wu W, Zhou W, Shi ZX, Misko VR, Peeters FM, Physical review B 94, 024514 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.94.024514
Abstract: The dynamics of driven pancake vortices in layered superconductors is studied using molecular-dynamics simulations. We found that, with increasing driving force, for strong interlayer coupling, the preexisted vortex lines either directly depin or first transform to two-dimensional (2D) pinned states before they are depinned, depending on the pinning strength. In a narrow region of pinning strengths, we found an interesting repinning process, which results in a negative differential resistance. For weak interlayer coupling, individually pinned pancake vortices first form disordered 2D flow and then transform to ordered three-dimensional (3D) flow with increasing driving force. However, for extremely strong pinning, the random pinning-induced thermal-like Langevin forces melt 3D vortex lines, which results in a persistent 2D flow in the fast-sliding regime. In the intermediate regime, the peak effect is found: With increasing driving force, the moving pancake vortices first crystallize to moving 3D vortex lines, and then these 3D vortex lines are melted, leading to the appearance of a reentrant 2D flow state. Our results are summarized in a dynamical phase diagram.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.94.024514
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“Self-assembly of gas-phase synthesized magnesium nanoparticles on room temperature substrates”. Venturi F, Calizzi M, Bals S, Perkisas T, Pasquini L, Materials research express 2, 015007 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1088/2053-1591/2/1/015007
Abstract: Magnesium nanoparticles (NPs) with initial size in the 10-50 nmrange were synthesized by inert gas condensation under helium flow and deposited on room temperature substrates. The morphology and crystal structure of the NPs ensemble were investigated as a function of the deposition time by complementary electron microscopy techniques, including high resolution imaging and chemical mapping. With increasing amount of material, strong coarsening phenomena were observed at room temperature: small NPs disappeared while large faceted NPs developed, leading to a 5-fold increase of the average NPs size within a few minutes. The extent of coarsening and the final morphology depended also on the nature of the substrate. Furthermore, large single-crystal NPs were seen to arise from the self-organization of primary NPs units, providing a mechanism for crystal growth. The dynamics of the self-assembly process involves the basic steps of NPs sticking, diffusion on substrate, coordinated rotation and attachment/coalescence. Key features are the surface energy anisotropy, reflected by the faceted shape of the NPs, and the low melting point of the material. The observed phenomena have strong implications in relation to the synthesis and stability of nanostructures based on Mg or other elements with similar features.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.068
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1088/2053-1591/2/1/015007
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“Self-assembly of Janus particles into helices with tunable pitch”. Sobrino Fernandez M, Misko VR, Peeters FM, Physical review : E : statistical, nonlinear, and soft matter physics 92, 042309 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.92.042309
Abstract: Janus particles present an important class of building blocks for directional assembly. These are compartmentalized colloids with two different hemispheres. In this work we consider a three-dimensional model of Janus spheres that contain one hydrophobic and one charged hemisphere. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we study the morphology of these particles when confined in a channel-like environment. The interplay between the attractive and repulsive forces on each particle gives rise to a rich phase space where the relative orientation of each particle plays a dominant role in the formation of large-scale clusters. The interest in this system is primarily due to the fact that it could give a better understanding of the mechanisms of the formation of polar membranes. A variety of ordered membranelike morphologies is found consisting of single and multiple connected chain configurations. The helicity of these chains can be chosen by simply changing the salt concentration of the solution. Special attention is given to the formation of Bernal spirals. These helices are composed of regular tetrahedra and are known to exhibit nontrivial translational and rotational symmetry.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.366
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevE.92.042309
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