Quantum phases of matter in novel 2D materials host fascinating correlated electron properties, such as unconventional superconductivity, novel insulating phases and exotic magnetic order. These phenomena are a source of new forms of energy-efficient technologies, which require fundamental understanding and exploration of these material classes.
For some time now, scientists have struggled with the lack of predictability of such materials. A better understanding of the role of electron interactions is consequently needed. In an effort to achieve this, the research team will use a novel experimental approach that is based on various high-resolution scanning probe microscopy methods (known as JAQ) for simultaneously studying the magnetic, electronic and geometric structure of materials at the atomic scale in 2D materials.
Energy-efficient data storage
The project will quantify atomic-scale charge and spin order in transitions between different quantum phases in three classes of hallmark 2D materials: twisted bilayers, correlated quasi-2D compounds and 2D magnetic materials. The acquisition of this fundamental knowledge may ultimately lead to novel innovations in material science. The knowledge that is subsequently gained could be used to design new material systems for future energy-efficient data storage and data processing technologies.
This project will involve collaboration with both experimental and theoretical experts on correlated materials. The team will work together with academic groups at the Universities of Twente, Groningen, and Trieste and at the Villum Centre of Excellence for Dirac Materials at Aarhus University in Denmark.
