Molecularly thin two-dimensional crystals can alleviate the
lattice matching restrictions of epitaxial crystalline thin film growth, as
reported by researchers in Japan.
Epitaxial growth has become increasingly important for
growing crystalline thin films with tailored electronic, optical and magnetic
properties for technological applications. However, the approach is limited by
the high structural similarities required between an underlying substrate and a
growing crystal layer on top of it. Takayoshi Sasaki and colleagues at the
International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA) and the University
of Tokyo in Japan demonstrate how using two-dimensional materials they can
extend the versatility of epitaxial growth techniques.