Two-dimensional inorganic molecular crystals

Wei Han,Xiuwen Zhang,Liang Li,Pu Huang,Fakun Wang,Peng Luo,Xing Zhou,Huiqiao Li,Tianyou Zhai,Kailang Liu,Yi Cui

doi:10.1038/s41467-019-12569-9

Abstract

Two-dimensional molecular crystals, consisting of zero-dimensional molecules, are very appealing due to their novel physical properties. However, they are mostly limited to organic molecules. The synthesis of inorganic version of two-dimensional molecular crystals is still a challenge due to the difficulties in controlling the crystal phase and growth plane. Here, we design a passivator-assisted vapor deposition method for the growth of two-dimensional Sb2O3 inorganic molecular crystals as thin as monolayer. The passivator can prevent the heterophase nucleation and suppress the growth of low-energy planes, and enable the molecule-by-molecule lateral growth along high-energy planes. Using Raman spectroscopy and in situ transmission electron microscopy, we show that the insulating α-phase of Sb2O3 flakes can be transformed into semiconducting β-phase under heat and electron-beam irradiation. Our findings can be extended to the controlled growth of other two-dimensional inorganic molecular crystals and open up opportunities for potential molecular electronic devices.

Highlights

Two-dimensional molecular crystals, consisting of zero-dimensional molecules, are very appealing due to their novel physical properties
Twodimensional molecular crystals (2DMCs) with in-plane intermolecular van der Waals forces have emerged as the promising materials for next-generation electronics because of their quantum tunneling effect, tunable properties by molecular design, dangling-bond-free surface, and molecularly uniform thinness[3]
We report the synthesis of ultrathin 2D Sb2O3 molecular crystals with thickness down to monolayer on mica substrates by passivator-assisted vapor deposition (PAVD)

Summary

Introduction

Two-dimensional molecular crystals, consisting of zero-dimensional molecules, are very appealing due to their novel physical properties. Both in-situ and ex-situ Raman spectroscopy reveal that Sb2O3 flakes exhibit a heat-induced reversible structural phase transition.

Results

Conclusion