From Epitaxy to Membranes: A Materials Science Approach to Functional Interfaces

By leveraging advanced synthesis methods, such as hybrid molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), I will demonstrate an effective yet straightforward approach to creating high-quality oxide membranes and their bicrystals with precise structural and electronic properties. The presentation will focus on three key aspects: the synthesis of atomically-precise membranes, the challenges and solutions for producing membranes without or with controlled wrinkles and cracks, and the development of sensitive characterization techniques. Using SrTiO3 and BaTiO3 as examples, I will showcase our group's work in achieving thin membranes with excellent control over thickness, stoichiometry, and surface termination. Additionally, I will introduce the sacrificial layer approach, which yields oxide membranes with a room-temperature dielectric constant of approximately 300. This work offers a materials science perspective on how epitaxy can enhance membrane technology, unlocking new opportunities for applications in energy storage, sensors, and nanoelectronics.