Research Focus
We focus on the controlled preparation and integration of low-dimensional materials and nanostructures. Our core activities include:
• 2D material assembly and heterostructure fabrication. We fabricate van der Waals heterostructures by deterministic stacking of monolayers and few-layer crystals, including TMDs, graphene, and hBN.
• Air-sensitive material processing. Using an inert-atmosphere glove box, we handle and assemble oxygen- and moisture-sensitive materials.
• Interface optimization by AFM ironing. An atomic force microscope (AFM) is employed not only for topographical characterization but also for mechanical “ironing” of 2D heterostructures. By scanning in controlled contact modes, we flatten interfacial bubbles, reduce trapped contaminants, and improve layer-to-layer adhesion.
• Surface cleaning and interface engineering. We apply plasma cleaning, ozone treatment, and UV-assisted surface activation to remove organic residues and improve interface quality.
• Thermal processing and annealing. High-temperature treatments in a vacuum oven (up to 1100 °C) enable crystal annealing, defect engineering, contact improvement, and removal of polymer residues after transfer processes.
• Thickness identification and optical screening. A manual 2D transfer setup equipped with reflectometry allows rapid identification and thickness determination of exfoliated flakes.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Our preparation lab combines controlled environments with precision transfer and cleaning tools:
• Inert-Atmosphere Glove Box with Automated 2D Transfer System
• Manual 2D Transfer Station with Reflectometer
• Atomic Force Microscope (AFM)
• Plasma Cleaning Systems
• Ozone Cleaner and UV Lamp
• Vacuum Oven
• Chemistry Fume Hood
Why It Matters
High-quality experiments start with high-quality samples. In low-dimensional systems, interface contamination, trapped bubbles, and uncontrolled defects can dominate optical and electronic behavior. The Sample Preparation Laboratory is designed to minimize these limitations at the source.
By combining inert processing, deterministic transfer, AFM-based interface ironing, advanced cleaning techniques, and high-temperature annealing, we create well-defined, reproducible material platforms. The ability to mechanically optimize interfaces after stacking provides a decisive advantage in achieving low-disorder heterostructures.
This level of control is essential for studying intrinsic excitonic physics, strain effects, hybrid light–matter states, and single-photon emission without fabrication-induced artifacts. The lab serves as the technological backbone for our photoluminescence and cathodoluminescence investigations, enabling engineered quantum material systems with tailored interfaces, controlled stacking order, and optimized surface quality.