Protocol for preparing layer-engineered van der Waals materials through atomic spalling

Abstract

Summary: Here, we present a protocol for preparing layer-engineered van der Waals (vdW) materials via an atomic spalling process. We describe steps for fixing bulk crystals and introduce the appropriate stressor materials. We then detail a deposition technique for internal stress regulation of stressor film, followed by layer-engineered atomic-scale spalling to exfoliate vdW materials with a controlled number of layers from bulk crystals. Lastly, we outline a procedure for polymer/stressor film removal.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Moon et al.1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Keywords

• Physics
• Material Sciences