The proposed research project aims to explore a radically new approach to modulate the electronic properties of 2D (semi-)metallic van der Waals crystals, which could have a significant impact on electronic devices' development. This approach involves the selective use of strain induced via electrostatic force in van der Waals crystals incorporated in a free- standing mechanical resonator structure. The main objective is to investigate in detail how the controlled and dynamic application of strain can effectively change the electronic properties of a material. In particular, the project shall explore whether the achievable strain is sufficient to drive materials through a (e.g. superconducting) electronic quantum phase transition to finally gain in-situ control over such exotic states. In addition, the study aims to selectively break crystallographic symmetries and induce new spin-polarized bands and optical selection rules to allow for the development of new types of electronic devices. This research proposes the use of 2D crystalline (semi-)metals, a class of crystals consisting of covalently bonded quasi 2D planes that are stacked one on top of another and interact only weakly through the van der Waals force in order to maximize the achievable strain in micromechanical structures.    «

The proposed research project aims to explore a radically new approach to modulate the electronic properties of 2D (semi-)metallic van der Waals crystals, which could have a significant impact on electronic devices' development. This approach involves the selective use of strain induced via electrostatic force in van der Waals crystals incorporated in a free- standing mechanical resonator structure. The main objective is to investigate in detail how the controlled and dynamic application of stra...    »