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Spins in two-dimensional materials for tunable magnetic and optoelectronic devices

Project description

New magnetic and optoelectronic devices for modern information technology

Funded by the European Research Council, the 2D-OPTOSPIN project will develop magnetic devices combined with optical communication for energy-efficient data storage and transport at the nanoscale. Specifically, it will exploit the properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials such as the efficient spin-orbit torques (SOT) of 2D semimetals with unusual symmetries and the excellent optical properties of 2D semiconductors. It will seek to create externally controlled all-2D SOT devices, realise electric tuneability of spins and excitons in 2D semiconductors, demonstrate electrical spin injection in a 2D semiconductor with spin direction controlled by SOT, and develop externally controlled 2D spin LEDs and spin lasers. The project will pave the way for new generations of information technologies and enrich the Van der Waals spintronics field.

Objective

In order for modern information technology to continue progressing at a rapid pace we require smaller devices consuming less energy.

Magnetic materials provide a promising route for nonvolatile memory devices. However, downscaling them is challenging, and information transfer between devices is hindered by short spin relaxation lengths, making it necessary to convert spin information into charge currents, leading to an increase in power dissipation.

The aim of this ERC project is to exploit the properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials to combine highly-efficient magnetic devices with optical communication. Specifically, I propose to seamlessly integrate the unique and highly efficient spin-orbit torques (SOTs) of 2D semimetals with the excellent optical properties of 2D semiconductors.

Low-symmetry 2D semimetals present SOT symmetries not seen in conventional devices. These are ideal for the control of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy ferromagnets as used in modern high-density memory devices, with the added advantage of their small size. Due to their reduced dimensionality, 2D semiconductors show strong light-matter interaction, efficient electric control over their optical properties, and low lasing thresholds. When combined, energy-efficient devices can be realized in which nonvolatile magnetic information is optically transported over very large distances.

To achieve this goal, I will (1) create externally controlled all-2D SOT devices, (2) realize electric tunability of spins and excitons in 2D semiconductors, (3) demonstrate electrical spin injection in a 2D semiconductor with spin direction controlled using SOTs, and (4) develop externally controlled 2D spin LEDs and spin lasers.

This project will pave the way for new generations of information technologies, addressing fundamental aspects along the way. It will enrich the van der Waals spintronics field and provide a new strategy towards energy-efficient data storage and transport at the nanoscale.

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

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Call for proposal

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(opens in new window) ERC-2022-STG

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Host institution

RIJKSUNIVERSITEIT GRONINGEN
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 1 500 000,00
Address
Broerstraat 5
9712CP Groningen
Netherlands

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Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 1 500 000,00

Beneficiaries (1)

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