Two symmetric n-type interfaces SrTiO3/LaAlO3 in perovskite: Electronic properties from density functional theory

Abstract

The first principles study of the (001) two symmetric n-type interfaces between two insulating perovskites, the nonpolar SrTiO3 (STO), and the polar LaAlO3 (LAO) was performed. We have analyzed the formation of metallic interface states between the STO and LAO heterointerfaces by using the all-electron full-potential linearized augmented plane-wave approach based on the density functional theory, within the local density approximation, the Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof generalized gradient approximation (PBE-GGA), and the Engel-Vosko GGA (EVGGA) formalism. It has been found that some bands cross the Fermi energy level (EF), forming a metallic nature of two symmetric n-type 6.5STO/1.5LAO interfaces with density of states at EF, N(EF) of about 3.56 (state/eV/unit cell), and bare electronic specific heat coefficient (γ) of about 0.62 mJ/(mol cell K2). The electronic band stature and the partial density of states in the vicinity of EF are mainly originated from Ti1,2,3,4-3dxy orbitals. These bands are responsible for the metallic behavior and the forming of the Fermi surface of the two symmetric n-type 6.5STO/1.5LAO interfaces. To obtain a clear map of the valence band electronic charge density distribution of the two symmetric n-type 6.5STO/1.5LAO interfaces, we have investigated the bond's nature and the interactions between the atoms. It reveals that the charge is attracted towards O atoms as it is clear that the O atoms are surrounded by uniform blue spheres which indicate the maximum charge accumulation.