Issue 39, 2024

Tunability of topological edge states in germanene at room temperature

Abstract

Germanene is a two-dimensional topological insulator with a large topological band gap. For its use in low-energy electronics, such as topological field effect transistors and interconnects, it is essential that its topological edge states remain intact at room temperature. In this study, we examine these properties in germanene using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy at 300 K and compare the results with data obtained at 77 K. Our findings show that the edge states persist at room temperature, although thermal effects cause smearing of the bulk band gap. Additionally, we demonstrate that, even at room temperature, applying an external perpendicular electric field switches the topological states of germanene off. These findings indicate that germanene's topological properties can be maintained and controlled at room temperature, making it a promising material for low-energy electronic applications.

Graphical abstract: Tunability of topological edge states in germanene at room temperature

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
07 Jun 2024
Accepted
25 Aug 2024
First published
27 Aug 2024
This article is Open Access
Creative Commons BY license

J. Mater. Chem. C, 2024,12, 15975-15980

Tunability of topological edge states in germanene at room temperature

D. J. Klaassen, I. Boutis, C. Castenmiller and P. Bampoulis, J. Mater. Chem. C, 2024, 12, 15975 DOI: 10.1039/D4TC02367F

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