Physics Colloquium- Spintronics in Proximitized Two-Dimensional Materials

Abstract: Exploitation of the intrinsic spin of an electron, spintronics, could enable the development of multifunctional and novel devices. With respect to the material selection, van der Waals heterostructures, composed from the assembly of two-dimensional (2D) crystals, could enable new spintronics functionalities that are not accessible in individual crystals or any other bulk materials. In this talk, I will present our spin dependent electronic transport measurements in such ultra-thin devices. Firstly, I will demonstrate that by bringing semi-metallic graphene into a proximity to transition metal dichalcogenides, we enhance its weak spin orbit coupling strength three orders of magnitude and simultaneously realize optospintronics functionality. Then, I will show that semiconducting black phosphorus-based van der Waals heterostructures exhibit remarkable spin transport properties after an in-situ h-BN encapsulation process. Finally, I will provide an outlook about 2D van der Waals spin devices after briefly reviewing recently discovered 2D magnets. 
 
** Refreshments served from 2:45pm – 3:00pm in PAS 218.  Thank you. **