Complex Stacking Research Articles

I/O Access Patterns in HPC Applications: A 360-Degree Survey

The high-performance computing I/O stack has been complex due to multiple software layers, the inter-dependencies among these layers, and the different performance tuning options for each layer. In this complex stack, the definition of an “I/O access pattern” has been reappropriated to describe what an application is doing to write or read data from the perspective of different layers of the stack, often comprising a different set of features. It has become common to have to redefine what is meant when discussing a pattern in every new study, as no assumption can be made. This survey aims to propose a baseline taxonomy, harnessing the I/O community’s knowledge over the past 20 years. This definition can serve as a common ground for high-performance computing I/O researchers and developers to apply known I/O tuning strategies and design new strategies for improving I/O performance. We seek to summarize and bring a consensus to the multiple ways to describe a pattern based on common features already used by the community over the years.

Atomistic analysis of temperature-dependent dislocation dynamics in Ni3Al-based intermetallic alloys

In this study, we investigate the dynamics of superlattice edge dislocations composed of partial dislocations, complex stacking faults, and antiphase boundaries in binary and ternary Ni-based alloys (γ’ phase) with the L12 structure. In the case of Ni3Al, the dislocation velocity decreases with increasing temperature at low applied shear stress, mainly owing to the phonon drag effect. Meanwhile, in the case of ternary alloys constructed by exchanging Ni atoms with Co atoms in Ni3Al, the effects of temperature on dislocation motion are more complex. At low applied shear stress, the dislocation motion is disturbed by solute Co (i.e., solid-solution strengthening). In this case, the temperature promotes dislocation motion because the potential energy barrier dominates the thermally activated dislocation dynamics. In contrast, when the applied shear stress increases, the temperature suppresses dislocation motion owing to the phonon drag effect. The drag effect also increases with increasing Co concentration. The origin of the energy barrier due to solute atoms at low applied shear stress can be explained by the interaction between the partial dislocation and solute Co. Meanwhile, the origin of the drag effect on the superlattice dislocation dynamics is discussed on the basis of atomic vibrational motions and wavy dislocation behaviors. In this study, we propose and construct a map showing the dominant effects on complex superlattice dislocation dynamics. The map has energy-barrier-dominated, phonon-drag-dominated, and sound velocity-dominated regions, suggesting that the dominant factor changes depending on the applied shear stress, temperature, and strength of the solute–dislocation interaction.

Formation and propagation mechanism of complex stacking fault in 180 μm thick 4H-SiC epitaxial layers

The formation mechanism and propagation behavior of a complex stacking fault (SF) in thick silicon carbide epitaxial layers was investigated using depth-resolved section X-ray topography and ultraviolet photoluminescence (UVPL) imaging. The SF is initiated in the substrate by deflection of a threading screw dislocation onto two basal half planes creating a Frank fault. This fault propagates into the epitaxial layer and interacts with several threading mixed dislocations, which creates both Frank and Shockley SFs on the same basal plane. UVPL images using different spectral filters show various SF type conversions occurring during propagation of the complex SF.

Insights into the Charge-Transfer Mechanism and Stacking Structures in a Large Sample of Donor/Acceptor Models of a Non-Fullerene Organic Solar Cell

Non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs) have boomed in the field of organic solar cells (OSCs); however, the charge generation mechanism remains elusive owing to the complex molecular stacking patterns in the active layer and numerous selections of the donor and acceptor for practical OSCs. Herein, we built 178 interfacial models consisting of molecules M-Phs and BTP-eC9 as the donor (D) and acceptor (A), respectively, to reveal the relationship between the molecular stacking patterns and charge-transfer (CT) mechanisms. After obtaining the optimized D/A structures, we divided the 178 D/A dimers into different groups (T-S, C-S, N-N groups) based on the molecular stacking pattern by positional parameters (i.e., centroid distance and angle) and calculated their interfacial properties. The results indicate that multichannel exciton dissociation mechanisms exist in the M-Phs/BTP-eC9 active layer (i.e., hot exciton and direct excitation mechanisms, the intermolecular electric field (IEF) mechanism, and hole transfer) and the different CT mechanisms are mainly attributed to changes in the stacking patterns caused by the different portions of the acceptor approaching the skeleton of the donor. We further classified the group with the terminal unit of the acceptor inclined to approach different portions of the donor skeleton in detail by a molecular orientation (face-on, edge-on, and slipped), and we found a strong correlation between the energy of the lowest charge-transfer state (ECT) and the distance of the centroid between the terminal unit of the acceptor and the π bridge of the donor. This work provides a robust description of the relationship between molecular stackings and CT mechanisms, suggesting the crucial role of D and A arrangements in the NFA-based active layer.

Sedimentary characteristics of sandy braided river deposits and factors controlling their deposition: A case study of the lower Shihezi Formation in the northern ordos basin, China

Fluvial sandstones have been identified as significant reservoirs due to their importance in global hydrocarbon exploration. The current study investigated the sedimentary characteristics and temporal evolution of sandy braided river systems as well as the factors controlling their deposition in the Lower Shihezi Formation (H1-1 to H1-4 sub-member) of the Xinzhao area in the northern Ordos Basin using well logs, core intervals, whole rock geochemical data, and other measured reservoir parameters. Within the braided river deposits, five architectural elements were identified: multistory braided channel, single-story braided channel, sandy braid bar, overbank, and floodplain. The evolution of architectural elements in the Lower Shihezi Formation is closely related to paleoclimatic conditions and tectonic activity. Climate influences sediment accumulation through its effect on terrestrial detrital input, and tectonism influences stacking patterns and architectural style by influencing subsidence rates and accommodation changes. High sediment deliveries and high-energy hydrodynamic conditions in warm and humid climates, combined with low subsidence rates and low accommodation/sediment supply (A/S) ratios, can result in the formation of highly amalgamated braided channels and braid bars as well as complex vertical stacking patterns and aggradational processes in the H1-2 and H1-3 sub-members. Conversely, the dry and hot climates, high subsidence rates and associated high A/S ratios are responsible for the low detrital influx input, stacking of isolated sand bodies, and high preservation of overbank and floodplain deposits in the H1-4 sub-member. Considering the accommodation-based systems tracts, we contend that climate and tectonism both have a significant impact on the evolution and architectural styles of sandy braided river deposits. It is suggested that climates control the stacking pattern of fluvial sand bodies during high accommodation systems tracts, whereas both climates and accommodation spaces influence architectural styles and the degree of sand body amalgamation during low accommodation systems tracts. Considering the thick, highly amalgamated sand bodies with better reservoir properties and high vertical and lateral connectivity in the H1-2 and H1-3 sub-members, we posit that these stacked multistory sand bodies should be the preferential targets for hydrocarbon exploration. The findings of this study can further elucidate the architectural styles and factors that influence the deposition of sandy braided river systems under complex tectonic and climatic conditions.

Electrically driven amplified spontaneous emission from colloidal quantum dots

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are attractive materials for realizing solution-processable laser diodes that could benefit from size-controlled emission wavelengths, low optical-gain thresholds and ease of integration with photonic and electronic circuits1–7. However, the implementation of such devices has been hampered by fast Auger recombination of gain-active multicarrier states1,8, poor stability of QD films at high current densities9,10 and the difficulty to obtain net optical gain in a complex device stack wherein a thin electroluminescent QD layer is combined with optically lossy charge-conducting layers11–13. Here we resolve these challenges and achieve amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) from electrically pumped colloidal QDs. The developed devices use compact, continuously graded QDs with suppressed Auger recombination incorporated into a pulsed, high-current-density charge-injection structure supplemented by a low-loss photonic waveguide. These colloidal QD ASE diodes exhibit strong, broadband optical gain and demonstrate bright edge emission with instantaneous power of up to 170 μW.

Effect of focus ring with external circuit on cathode edge sheath dynamics in a capacitively coupled plasma

Capacitively coupled plasmas are widely used in semiconductor processes. The control of plasma to obtain uniform deposition and etching is an open problem, particularly within a few millimeters of the substrate edge. Complex material stacks commonly referred to as focus rings are placed at the wafer edge to provide uniform processes across the entire substrate but have limitations with regard to process window and eventual material erosion. One approach is to combine a focus ring with a tunable external circuit ground path termination to extend the plasma uniformity to the wafer edge over a wider process space. The external circuit coupling focus ring to the ground influences the ion energy profile and the ion angular profile by changing the impedance between the focus ring and the ground and allows wafer edge tuning over a wide range of operating parameters. In this work, it is found that the adjustable external circuit can control the partitioning of bias and RF voltages between the RF powered and passively coupled plasma facing surfaces. The focus ring with an external circuit assembly can also control the spatial distribution of plasma density and, therefore, improve the sheath edge profile. These results point to possible source designs for engineering the distribution of power dissipation and the electric field of the wafer edge in industrial plasma reactors.

Electronic states of domain walls in commensurate charge density wave ground state and mosaic phase in 1T -TaS2

Domain walls (DWs) in the charge-density-wave (CDW) Mott insulator 1T-TaS2 have unique localized states, which play an important role in exploring the electronic properties of the material. However, the electronic states in DWs in 1T-TaS2 have not been clearly understood, mostly due to the complex structures, phases, and interlayer stacking orders in the DW areas. Here, we explored the electronic states of DWs in the large-area CDW phase and mosaic phase of 1T-TaS2 by scanning tunneling spectroscopy. Due to the different densities of DWs, the electronic states of DWs show distinct features in these phases. In the large area CDW phase, both the domain and the DWs (DW1, DW2, DW4) have zero conductance at the Fermi level; while in the mosaic phase, they can be metallic or insulating depending on their environments. In areas with a high density of DWs, some electronic states were observed both on the DWs and within the domains, indicating delocalized states over the whole region. Our work contributes to further understanding of the interplay between CDW and electron correlations in 1T-TaS2.

Comprehensive ab initio study of effects of alloying elements on generalized stacking fault energies of Ni and Ni3Al

Excellent high-temperature mechanical properties of Ni-based single-crystal superalloys (NSCSs) are attributed to the yield strength anomaly of ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$ that is intimately related to generalized stacking fault energies (GSFEs). Therefore, clarifying the effects of alloying elements on the GSFEs is of great significance for alloys design. Here, by means of ab initio density functional theory calculations, we systematically calculated the GSFEs of different slip systems of Ni and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$ without and with alloying elements using the alias shear method. We obtained that for Ni, except for magnetic elements Mn, Fe, and Co, most of the alloying elements decrease the unstable stacking fault energy (${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\text{USF}}$) of the $[01\overline{1}](111)$ and $[11\overline{2}](111)$ slip systems and also decrease the stable stacking fault energy (${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\text{SF}}$) of the $[11\overline{2}](111)$ slip system. Interestingly, the reduction effects exhibit a strong correlation with the inverse of atom radii. For ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$, most of the alloying elements in groups IIIB--VIIB show a strong Al site preference. Except for Mn and Fe, the elements in groups VB--VIIB and the first column of group VIII increase the values of ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\text{USF}}$ of different slip systems of ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$, which makes the slip deformation and dislocation emits difficult. On the other hand, the elements in groups IIIB--VIIB also increase the value of ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\text{SF}}$, and thus reduce the stability of the antiphase boundary, complex stacking fault, and superlattice intrinsic stacking fault of ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$. We found that Re is an excellent strengthening alloying element that significantly increases the slip barrier of the tailing slip process for Ni, and also enhances the slip barrier of the leading slip process of three slip systems for ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$. W and Mo exhibit similar effects as Re. We predicted that Os, Ru, and Ir are good strengthening alloying elements as well, since they show the strengthening effects on both the leading and the tailing slip process for Ni and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$. This work established an exhaustive dictionary of the effects of various alloying elements on the GSFEs of both Ni and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}\mathrm{Al}$ phases, which would help to guide the design of next-generation high-performance NSCSs.

On the faulting and twinning mediated strengthening and plasticity in a γʹ strengthened CoNi-based superalloy at room temperature

Microscopic defects and their mutual interactions are fundamentally important in deciding the load carrying capacity of structural materials. In this context, the present work reports an unprecedented precipitate shearing mechanism in CoNi-based superalloys at room temperature where L12 ordered γʹ precipitates are embedded within a disordered CoCrNi-rich matrix. A combined electron channelling contrast imaging (ECCI) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) analysis revealed stacking fault (SF) and SF coupled nano-twin formation that rendered a significant work hardening rate. The observed twinning induced plasticity (TWIP) effect correlates with an excellent combination of yield strength, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and plasticity of 910 ± 30 MPa, 1360 ± 40 MPa and ∼ 18.5 (%), respectively, as exhibited by the peak aged Co-30Ni-12Cr-7Al-4Ti-2Nb-0.006B alloy at room temperature. Rigorous center of symmetry (COS) analysis on atomic resolution STEM images from the deformed samples unambiguously establishes precipitate shearing via single a/6⟨112⟩{111} partial dislocations resulting in twin formation, succeeding the intrinsic stacking fault (ISF) and complex stacking fault (CSF) of γ and γʹ, respectively. Through thermodynamic and first principles density functional theory calculations, it is demonstrated that the experimentally observed deformation mechanism is directly correlated with the negative stacking fault energy of γ matrix and low CSF energy of the γʹ precipitates. Based on these new findings, the present work demonstrates the flexibility of tuning the composition of CoCrNi containing superalloys to widen the alloy spectrum for designing alloys with improved properties.

On the Rouquier dimension of wrapped Fukaya categories and a conjecture of Orlov

We study the Rouquier dimension of wrapped Fukaya categories of Liouville manifolds and pairs, and apply this invariant to various problems in algebraic and symplectic geometry. On the algebro-geometric side, we introduce a new method based on symplectic flexibility and mirror symmetry to bound the Rouquier dimension of derived categories of coherent sheaves on certain complex algebraic varieties and stacks. These bounds are sharp in dimension at most$3$. As an application, we resolve a well-known conjecture of Orlov for new classes of examples (e.g. toric$3$-folds, certain log Calabi–Yau surfaces). We also discuss applications to non-commutative motives on partially wrapped Fukaya categories. On the symplectic side, we study various quantitative questions including the following. (1) Given a Weinstein manifold, what is the minimal number of intersection points between the skeleton and its image under a generic compactly supported Hamiltonian diffeomorphism? (2) What is the minimal number of critical points of a Lefschetz fibration on a Liouville manifold with Weinstein fibers? We give lower bounds for these quantities which are to the best of the authors’ knowledge the first to go beyond the basic flexible/rigid dichotomy.

Spectral interferometry for fully integrated device metrology

A spectral interferometry technique called vertical travelling scatterometry (VTS) is introduced, demonstrated, and discussed. VTS utilizes unique information from spectral interferometry and enables solutions for applications that are infeasible with traditional scatterometry approaches. The technique allows for data filtering related to spectral information from buried layers, which can then be ignored in the optical model. Therefore, using VTS, selective analyses of the topmost part of an arbitrarily complex stack are possible within a single metrology step. This methodology helps to overcome geometrical complexities and allows for focusing on parameters of interest through dramatically simplified optical modeling. Such model simplifications are specifically desired for back-end-of-line applications. Three examples are monitored discussed: (i) the critical dimensions (CDs) of a first metal level on top of nanosheet gate-all-around transistor structures, (ii) the thickness of an interlayer dielectric above embedded memory in the active area, and (iii) the CDs of trenches on top of tall stacks in the micrometer range comprising many layered dielectrics. It was found that, in all three cases, data filtering through VTS allowed for a simple optical model capable of delivering parameters of interest. The validity and accuracy of the VTS solution results were confirmed by extensive reference metrology obtained by traditional scatterometry, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, it was shown that machine learning models trained with VTS filtered data can converge to a robust solution with a smaller dataset compared with models training with traditional scatterometry data.

Effect of sample height and particle elongation in the sedimentation of colloidal rods.

We study theoretically the effect of a gravitational field on the equilibrium behaviour of a colloidal suspension of rods with different length-to-width aspect ratios. The bulk phases of the system are described with analytical equations of state. The gravitational field is then incorporated via sedimentation path theory, which assumes a local equilibrium condition at each altitude of the sample. The bulk phenomenology is significantly enriched by the presence of the gravitational field. In a suspension of elongated rods with five stable phases in bulk, the gravitational field stabilizes up to fifteen different stacking sequences. The sample height has a non-trivial effect on the stable stacking sequence. New layers of distinct bulk phases appear either at the top, at the bottom, or simultaneously at the top and the bottom when increasing the sample height at constant colloidal concentration. We also study sedimentation in a mass-polydisperse suspension in which all rods have the same shape but different buoyant masses.

Strong effect of crystal structure on the proximity effect between a superconductor and monolayer of cobalt

We present an unexpectedly strong influence of the proximity effect between the bulk Ru(0001) superconductor and atomically thin layers of Co on the crystal structure of the latter. The Co monolayer grows in two different modifications, such as hcp stacking and a reconstructed ε-like phase. While hcp islands show a weak proximity effect on Co and a little suppression of superconductivity in the substrate next to it, the more complex ε-like stacking becomes almost fully superconducting. We explain the weak proximity effect between Ru and hcp Co and the rather abrupt jump of the superconducting order parameter by a low transparency of the interface. In contrast, the strong proximity effect without a jump of the order parameter in the ε-like phase indicates a highly transparent interface. This work highlights that the proximity effect between a superconductor and a normal metal strongly depends on the crystal structure of the interface, which allows to engineer the proximity effect in hybrid structures.

Fine-Scale Three-Dimensional Characterization of a Reservoir Comprising Braided River Sand Bodies with a Complex Stacking Pattern in a Cratonic Basin

Abstract The complex stacking pattern of braided river sand bodies in the cratonic basins results in a multilevel and multistage spatial distribution of reservoir units, which increases the difficulty of characterizing the spatial distribution pattern of reservoir parameters. Therefore, when characterizing the spatial regularity of this type of reservoir, it is necessary to consider the stacking pattern of the sand bodies to select the constraints. In this paper, the He 8 section of the Sulige 120 area in the Ordos Basin, China, is taken as an example. First, based on analysis of the development scale and genetic type of sand bodies in the area, four sand body stacking patterns and plan-view distribution patterns are identified. Second, a study on how to improve the accuracy of braided river sand body models is carried out, and a sand body model is established. Finally, a three-dimensional model of reservoir properties is established by using the sequential Gaussian simulation method under the constraint of the phase control model. The model results show that the three-dimensional model of the sand bodies established by the multipoint geostatistical method has better connectivity and is more suitable for constructing sand body models under complex sand body stacking conditions. The training images established by the target body method can clearly identify the boundary of the main channel of the braided river and solve the discontinuity of the sand body distribution. The reservoir model established under the constraint of the sand body model can effectively simulate the nonhomogeneity in the reservoir parameters, which can play a crucial role in accurately predicting the porosity and permeability distribution patterns of reservoirs with complex sand body stacking pattern. The present study provides a new idea for characterizing complexly stacked sand body reservoirs in a cratonic basin.

Misfit layered compounds: Unique, tunable heterostructured materials with untapped properties

Building on discoveries in graphene and two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides, van der Waals (VdW) layered heterostructures—stacks of such 2D materials—are being extensively explored with resulting new discoveries of novel electronic and magnetic properties in the ultrathin limit. Here, we review a class of naturally occurring heterostructures—the so-called misfits—that combine disparate VdW layers with complex stacking. Exhibiting remarkable structural complexity and diversity of phenomena, misfits provide a platform on which to systematically explore the energetics and local bonding constraints of heterostructures and how they can be used to engineer novel quantum fabrics, electronic responsiveness, and magnetic phenomena. Like traditional classes of layered materials, they are often exfoliatable and thus also incorporatable as units in manually or robotically stacked heterostructures. Here, we review the known classes of misfit structures, the tools for their single crystal and thin film synthesis, the physical properties they exhibit, and the computational and characterization tools available to unravel their complexity. Directions for future research are also discussed.

CNS Flight Stack for Reproducible, Customizable, and Fully Autonomous Applications

While low-level auto pilot stacks for aerial vehicles focus on robust control, sensing, and estimation, the continuous advancement of higher-level autonomy for aerial vehicles requires much more complex higher-level flight stacks in order to enable safe, fully autonomous long-duration missions. Rather than focusing on the low-level control, high-level flight stacks are required to monitor the system's integrity continuously, initiate contingency plans, execute mission plans and adapt them in non-nominal situations, allow for proper data logging, and provide standardized interfaces and integrity verification for external mission planners and localization modules. To that end, we present our freely available, high-level flight stack dubbed CNS Flight Stack that meets the above requirements and at the same time a) is platform-agnostic through a generalized (embedded) hardware abstraction layer, b) uses low compute complexity for online use on embedded hardware, and c) can be extended with other sensor modalities, integrity checks, and mission modules. These additional properties make it reproducible on a variety of different platforms for safe and fully autonomous applications. We tested the proposed flight stack in over 450 real-world flights and report the failure modes our framework detected and also mitigated to avoid crashes of the aerial system.

Study on lattice discreteness effect on superdislocation core properties of Ni3Al by improved semi-discrete variational Peierls-Nabarro model

Nickel-based superalloys (NBSAs) serve as hot-end component materials of aero engines. NBSAs generally consist of γ and γ′ phases, the γ′ phase (i.e. Ni3Al) presents anomalous yield strength and non-Schmid effect, influencing the mechanical behaviors of NBSAs significantly. These phenomena are closely related to the ⟨110⟩{111} superdislocations. In the present work, based on the quasiharmonic density functional theory (DFT), the improved semi-discrete variational Peierls-Nabarro (SVPN) model is employed to systematically investigate the properties of such superdislocations, in terms of dislocation density distribution, splitting distance (i.e., anti-phase boundary APB, super-lattice intrinsic stacking fault SISF and complex stacking fault width CSF), total energy, Peierls stress and so on. It is found that the predicted superdislocation characters, especially the Peierls stress, are in good agreement with previous experimental results, considering the lattice discreteness effect. This implies that the lattice discreteness plays an important role in the total dislocation energy and Peierls stress, which has however been ignored in previous studies. Although such superdislocation may have several possible core configurations, the dissociation of four 1/6⟨112⟩ Shockley partials separated by two CSFs and an APB may be more energetically favorable at both 300 K and 1200 K. In addition, the superdislocation properties with such the core structure may be easily affected by applied stress. The present work provides an improved SVPN model with consideration of lattice discreteness to describe the superdislocation properties in Ni3Al, which may be helpful for understanding the plastic deformation behavior of the γ′ phase and NBSAs.

Stacking fault formation in perovskite Ti3AlC carbides in a TiAl based alloy during creep at 800°C

The interaction between dislocations and perovskite Ti3AlC precipitates in Ti-45Al-5Nb-0.75C after being crept at 800 °C was investigated by aberration corrected transmission electron microscopy. The results show that Ti3AlC carbides can be sheared by dislocations, but unlike dislocation activity reported in other perovskite structures, stacking faults and crossed stacking fault configurations form. The stacking fault formation is induced by the shear of 1/6<112> Shockley partial dislocations that resulted from the dissociation of 1/2<110> partial dislocations. Due to enhanced local atomic reordering processes at 800 °C, nearest neighbor atom violation of the complex stacking faults was relieved and thus stacking fault formation was promoted in Ti3AlC carbides. By glide of partial dislocations, stacking faults extended along {111} planes and encountered each other to form crossed stacking fault configurations. The resulting stair-rod arrangement might further strengthen the precipitates, and thus make them strong obstacles for dislocation gliding at 800 °C.

Planarization of a bowl-shaped molecule by triple-decker stacking

A bowl-shaped π-conjugated molecule typically undergoes bowl-inversion motion via a planarized transition state (TS), the highest-energy state along the reaction coordinate between two minimum bowl structures. Isolation of such planarized state has been challenging. Here, we report that a platinum(II) complex of antiaromatic porphyrin, norcorrole, adopts bowl-shaped conformation in solution but can become planar in solid. In the crystalline state, the norcorrole Pt(II) complex forms triple-decker stacking structures, in which the planarized norcorrole is stabilized and sandwiched between two bowl-shaped norcorroles. The planar conformation corresponds to the TS structure in the dynamic bowl-to-bowl inversion motion of the bowl-shaped molecule. Detailed theoretical studies have revealed that the intrinsically unstable planar conformation is stabilized by the dispersion force among the substituents and enhanced Pt–Pt interactions created by the antiaromatic macrocyclic ligand. • A planar structure of an intrinsically bowl-shaped molecule is observed in the solid state • Triple-decker stacking is stabilized by dispersion interactions • Pt–Pt interaction is enhanced by the antiaromaticity of the ligand A bowl-shaped π-conjugated molecule often flips via a planarized conformation. Here, Kawashima et al. describe the synthesis and properties of an antiaromatic Pt(II) norcorrole complex, which forms a triple-decker stacking structure in which one planarized molecule is sandwiched between two bowl-shaped molecules in the solid state.