Direct observation of strong surface reconstruction in partially reduced nickelate films.

ABSTRACT: The polarity of a surface can affect the electronic and structural properties of oxide thin films through electrostatic effects. Understanding the mechanism behind these effects requires knowledge of the atomic structure and electrostatic characteristics at the surface. In this study, we use annular bright-field imaging to investigate the surface structure of a Pr_0.8Sr_0.2NiO_2+x (0 < x < 1) film. We observe a polar distortion coupled with octahedral rotations in a fully oxidized Pr_0.8Sr_0.2NiO₃ sample, and a stronger polar distortion in a partially reduced sample. Its spatial depth extent is about three unit cells from the surface. Additionally, we use four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM) to dir

SUBMITTER: Yang C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10774438 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature