Dynamical control of nanoscale electron density in atomically thin n-type semiconductors via nano-electric pulse generator.

Kim, Sujeong; Lee, Hyeongwoo; Eom, Seonhye; Ji, Gangseon; Choi, Soo Ho; Joo, Huitae; Bae, Jinhyuk; Kim, Ki Kang et al. · Sci Adv · 2024

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Controlling electron density in two-dimensional semiconductors is crucial for both comprehensive understanding of fundamental material properties and their technological applications. However, conventional electrostatic doping methods exhibit limitations, particularly in addressing electric field-induced drift and subsequent diffusion of electrons, which restrict nanoscale doping. Here, we present a tip-induced nanospectroscopic electric pulse modulator to dynamically control nanoscale electron density, thereby facilitating precise measurement of nano-optoelectronic behaviors within a MoS<sub>2</sub> monolayer. The tip-induced electric pulse enables nanoscale modulation of electron distribution as a function of electric pulse width. We simultaneously investigate spatially altering photoluminescence quantum yield at the nanoscale region. We model the extent of electron depletion region, confirming a minimum doping region with a radius of ∼265 nanometers for a 30-nanosecond pulse width. Our approach paves the way for engineering local electron density and in situ nano-optical characterization in two-dimensional materials, enabling an in-depth understanding of doping-dependent nano-optoelectronic phenomena.