Abstract
The three-dimensional structure of metastable exfoliated-restacked WS2 (r-WS2) has been determined by the atomic pair distribution function (PDF) technique. We show that the structure of r-WS2is not a random turbostratic assembly of layers, as previously thought, but it can be better regarded as a monoclinic structure with considerable intrinsic disorder. At room temperature, the atomic-scale structure of r-WS2 is well described in the space group P1121 of the monoclinic system with four formula units in the cell, and lattice parameters a = 3.270(5) Å, b = 5.717(5) Å, c = 12.309(5) Å, and γ = 88.43°. Analysis of the X-ray scattering data, collected with Synchrotron radiation (λ = 0.202 Å) over a wide scattering angle, shows that the metastable material is built of layers of distorted (WS6) octahedral units, in contrast to hexagonal 2H-WS2 which is built of layers of perfect (WS6) trigonal prisms. A characteristic structural feature of the restacked material is that W atoms within a single layer form zigzag chains along the a axis of the unit cell via short metal−metal bonds of length 2.77(1) and 2.85(1) Å, in agreement with previous two-dimensional electron diffraction studies.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
