MoTe<sub>2</sub>: Semiconductor or Semimetal?

Deng, Ya; Zhao, Xiaoxu; Zhu, Chao; Li, Peiling; Duan, Ruihuan; Liu, Guangtong; Liu, Zheng · ACS Nano · 2021

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Transition metal tellurides (TMTs) have attracted intense interest due to their intriguing physical properties arising from their diverse phase topologies. To date, a wide range of physical properties have been discovered for TMTs, including that they can act as topological insulators, semiconductors, Weyl semimetals, and superconductors. Among the TMT families, MoTe<sub>2</sub> is a representative material because of its Janus nature and rich phases. In this Perspective, we first introduce phase structures in monolayer and bulk MoTe<sub>2</sub> and then summarize MoTe<sub>2</sub> synthesis strategies. We highlight recent advances of Janus MoTe<sub>2</sub> in terms of material structures and emerging quantum states. We also provide insight into the opportunities and challenges faced by MoTe<sub>2</sub>-associated device design and applications.