Multifunctional Interfacial Materials by Design
Chang-Beom Eom
Principal Investigator
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Evgeny Tsymbal
University of Wisconsin, Madison
James Rondinelli
Northwestern University
Long-Qing Chen
Pennsylvania State University
Craig J. Fennie
Cornell University
Mark Rzchowski
University of Wisconsin, Madison
New approaches to the discovery of materials displaying novel properties are critical for the continued scientific progress in condensed matter science and applications. This project addresses this need with a focus on "oxide interfacial materials," those formed at and near the atomically abrupt boundary between two oxygen-based materials, each of which can exhibit a stunning array of phenomena such as magnetism, piezoelectric behavior, superconductivity, and structural ordering. At the interface, interactions between these functionalities give rise to unexplored nanoscale behaviors. These new interfacial materials are some of the most promising in which to realize new phenomena that will challenge our current understanding, and that will develop new electronic device directions to address our society's technology needs. The project brings a broad educational experience to all students, interacting with faculty members of this research team at five universities, working with scientists at National Laboratories and international institutions, and participating in outreach activities.