Heterostructures are materials composed of two or more layers of different materials, typically with different electronic, optical, or magnetic properties. These layers are stacked on top of each other to create a unique material with enhanced properties.
Some common techniques used to create heterostructures include molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and pulsed laser deposition (PLD). These methods involve depositing thin layers of different materials onto a substrate to form the heterostructure.
Heterostructures have a wide range of potential applications, including in electronics, optoelectronics, and energy harvesting. They can be used to create high-performance transistors, LEDs, solar cells, and more.
One of the main challenges in studying heterostructures is the precise control and characterization of the materials and interfaces. The layers must be deposited with high accuracy and the properties of the heterostructure must be carefully measured and analyzed.
Heterostructures play a crucial role in nanotechnology, as they allow for the manipulation and control of materials at the nanoscale. They can be used to create new materials with unique properties and functionalities, which can lead to advancements in various fields such as medicine, electronics, and energy.