{
  "id": "2405.16750",
  "version": "v1",
  "published": "2024-05-27T01:43:19.000Z",
  "updated": "2024-05-27T01:43:19.000Z",
  "title": "Realization of 2/3-layer transition metal dichalcogenides",
  "authors": [
    "Ya-Xin Zhao",
    "Zi-Yi Han",
    "Ya-Ning Ren",
    "Ruo-Han Zhang",
    "Xiao-Feng Zhou",
    "Yu Zhang",
    "Lin He"
  ],
  "comment": "4 figures in main text",
  "categories": [
    "cond-mat.mes-hall",
    "cond-mat.mtrl-sci"
  ],
  "abstract": "Layered van der Waals transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), generally composed of three atomic X-M-X planes in each layer (M = transition metal, X = chalcogen), provide versatile platforms for exploring diverse quantum phenomena. In each MX2 layer, the M-X bonds are predominantly covalent in nature, as a result, the cleavage of TMDC crystals always occurring between the layers. Here we report the controllable realization of fractional-layer WTe2 via an in-situ scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) tip manipulation technique. By applying STM tip pulses, hundreds of the topmost Te atoms are removed to form a nanoscale monolayer Te pit in the 1T'-WTe2, thus realizing a brand-new 2/3-layer WTe2. Such a unique configuration undergoes a spontaneous atomic reconstruction, yielding an energy-dependent unidirectional charge-density-wave state with the wavevector and geometry quite distinct from that of pristine 1T'-WTe2. Our results expand the conventional understanding of the TMDCs and are expected to stimulate the research on extraordinary structures and properties based on fractional-layer TMDCs.",
  "revisions": [
    {
      "version": "v1",
      "updated": "2024-05-27T01:43:19.000Z"
    }
  ],
  "analyses": {
    "keywords": [
      "der waals transition metal dichalcogenides",
      "realization",
      "van der waals transition metal",
      "layered van der waals transition",
      "energy-dependent unidirectional charge-density-wave state"
    ],
    "note": {
      "typesetting": "TeX",
      "pages": 0,
      "language": "en",
      "license": "arXiv",
      "status": "editable"
    }
  }
}