Title:  Synthesis of Alloys and Lateral Heterostructures of Atomically Thin Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides for Optoelectronic Applications

Committee: 

Dr. Adibi, Advisor

Dr. Vogel, Chair

Dr. Cai

Abstract:

The objective of the proposed research is the synthesis of lateral heterostructures (HSs) with controllable shapes and dimensions in atomically thin layers of transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). I first develop a method for the post-growth alloying of binary TMD films and then apply the alloying technique to lithographically patterned TMDs for the synthesis of lateral HSs.  In addition to the full control over the geometrical parameters, my proposed method enables controlling the electrical band alignment at the junction. Following a complete set of optical, electrical, and elemental spectroscopies and characterizations, I will explore the potential of the developed material platform for optoelectronic applications such as light detection and emission. Possible challenges and potential solutions will be discussed.