Objective
The ground state of correlated materials is controlled by tuning parameters such as pressure or strain, which are usually applied homogeneously to crystals. Here we aim for strong yet controlled strain gradient fields in microstructured correlated crystals that selectively transform parts of the structure into different electronic ground states. XBENDs ambition is to open a new field of research into gradient quantum matter, defined as a highly non-linear regime in which gradients lead to qualitatively new behavior as compared to simple spatial distributions of bulk phases.
The concrete goal is a rational design of new electronic properties at interfaces between different correlated ground states within a single crystal – akin to the interface states between different materials in heterostructures. Specifically, we aim to frustrate interactions and/or competing orders in unconventional superconductors at this interface, with the goal to enhance the transition temperature Tc. We will create interfaces between (1) ferro-polar and paraelectric phases in crystals of doped SrTiO3; (2) oppositely detwinned domains in underdoped Ba(Fe,Co)2As2 crystals; (3) hidden-order and magnetic phases in URu2Si2. Contrasting their nature and physical responses to those expected from trivial phase mixtures will signal that XBEND has entered a non-linear gradient-driven regime.
Technically, we will fabricate free-standing single crystal cantilevers from as-grown crystals using Focused Ion Beam (FIB) machining. The cantilevers will be functionalized to allow cryogenic measurements of magnetoresistance while applying bending strain by pushing them with a piezoelectric motor. XBEND aims for extreme strain gradients in the 10%/micron range, yet our proof-of-concept already demonstrated 2%/micron. The induced microscopic strain/domain pattern will be probed by X-Ray microdiffraction at DESY/PETRA III, and a complete finite-element-model will capture the elasto-resistive response.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering manufacturing engineering subtractive manufacturing
- natural sciences physical sciences electromagnetism and electronics superconductivity
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
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.
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.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2022-COG
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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.
80539 MUNCHEN
Germany
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.