Tailoring Properties of van der Waals Layers by Surface Decoration with Nanomaterials

The project will develop hybrid 2D/0D layers based on van der Waals layers (graphene and InSe flakes) decorated with colloidal quantum dots and other nanomaterials. These hybrid structures will combine unique transport properties of 2D layers with tuneable optoelectronic properties of colloidal nanoparticles by control of their size and composition.
We will explore the effect of the interface on the charge transfer from nanoparticles to the 2D layer and will use it to control the surface doping effect. The interaction between charged defects in the vicinity of graphene and in the nanocrystals will also be investigated. We will study the effect of spatial ordering or charges at the 2D/0D interface on the device properties, aiming to achieve charge correlation and to create 2D/0D structures with controllable periodic potentials. Experimental optical, morphological and electrical studies will be supported by analytical simulations of electrostatic potential fluctuations in the graphene and its effect of carrier mobility.
The success of this project will provide a new strategy for post-growth control of carrier concentration and mobility in large scale graphene (CVD, SiC-graphene) and in InSe layers, and for their functionalization for applications in optoelectronic devices.
The project fits into and expands our current research supported by one of the largest European research initiatives, the Graphene Flagship, which aims to transfer graphene from cutting edge scientific research in academic laboratories to marketable products.