In a collaborative effort between research teams from the Charles University of Prague, the CFM (CSIC-UPV/EHU) center in San Sebastian, and CIC nanoGUNE’s Nanodevices group, a groundbreaking material with unique properties in the field of spintronics has been developed. This innovative discovery, recently featured in the journal Nature Materials, paves the way for the creation of cutting-edge electronic devices that are more efficient and advanced than ever before.
The exploration of two-dimensional materials with unprecedented characteristics has sparked a surge of interest in the scientific community. When these materials are stacked to form a heterostructure, new effects and functionalities emerge. Researchers have now identified that even slight rotations of these material layers can have a profound impact on the properties of the heterostructure.
Félix Casanova, an Ikerbasque Research Professor and co-leader of the Nanodevices group at nanoGUNE, spearheaded the investigation into the stacking of two layers of graphene and tungsten selenide (WSe2). By precisely aligning and rotating these layers, a spin current can be induced in a specific direction. This manipulation of spin currents is a critical aspect of spintronics, which relies on utilizing spin for information storage, processing, and transmission.
Overcoming Limitations in Spintronics
Traditionally, spin currents are transmitted perpendicular to electrical currents, presenting a challenge in the field of spintronics. However, the latest research indicates that this obstacle can be overcome by leveraging the unique properties of tailored materials. With the simple act of stacking two layers and applying a precise twist, previously undiscovered spin-related phenomena can be harnessed.
The recent breakthrough in material science marks a significant step forward in the realm of spintronics. By exploring the possibilities offered by two-dimensional materials and heterostructures, researchers are reshaping the landscape of electronic device development. This innovative approach opens doors to a new era of more efficient and powerful electronic technologies, setting the stage for transformative advancements in the field.