Twistronics of 2D materials

Twistronics, a term derived from "twisted electronics," has emerged as a ground breaking concept in the realm of two-dimensional (2D) materials, opening up new avenues for exploring and manipulating their electronic properties. The fundamental idea behind twistronics involves stacking or layering 2D materials at a specific relative angle, referred to as the twist angle, which has a profound impact on the material's electronic behavior. Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, was the pioneering 2D material that sparked the twistronics revolution. By introducing a second layer of graphene and rotating it at a precise angle relative to the first layer, researchers discovered that the electronic properties of the stacked system could be dramatically altered. This twist-induced modulation results in the formation of a moiré pattern, an interference pattern that arises due to the misalignment of the two layers. The moiré pattern, in turn, creates a superlattice with a periodic variation in the electronic structure, leading to phenomena such as correlated insulating states, superconductivity, and unconventional quantum Hall effects.

Twistronics has since been extended beyond graphene to other 2D materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), enabling scientists to engineer a plethora of electronic states and properties. The twist angle serves as a tuning parameter, allowing for precise control over the material's band structure and electronic interactions. This level of control has paved the way for the exploration of exotic quantum phenomena and the development of novel electronic devices. Researchers are actively investigating the potential applications of twistronics in creating next-generation electronic components, such as ultra-efficient transistors, quantum computers, and even unconventional superconductors.

The field of twistronics holds promise not only for its technological implications but also for its role in advancing our fundamental understanding of condensed matter physics. The interplay between electronic correlations, symmetry-breaking, and the intricate moiré patterns generated by twistronics offers a rich playground for exploring emergent phenomena. As research in twistronics continues to evolve, it is likely to uncover even more surprises and contribute significantly to the development of future electronic technologies. In summary, the marriage of 2D materials and twistronics has unleashed a new era in materials science and condensed matter physics, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of electronic devices.