PhD defence
Synthesis and Characterization of Boron, Nitrogen, and Carbon-Based Two-Dimensional Materials
- S. Campos Jara
- Date
- Thursday 26 June 2025
- Time
- Location
-
Academy Building
Rapenburg 73
2311 GJ Leiden
Supervisor(s)
- Prof.dr. I.M.N. Groot
- Prof.dr. M.T.M. Koper
Summary
In this thesis, we developed procedures to synthesize boron, nitrogen, and carbon-based 2-dimensional materials. The experiments were performed under ultra-high vacuum conditions, which means that these studies allow for research at pressures similar to those found in space. This controlled atmosphere provides full control over the elements present on our samples, ensuring high purity and precision in the synthesis process. Using metallic substrates, primarily copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) for our studies, and temperature combined with gas precursors containing the desired elements, we can perform a procedure known as chemical vapor deposition (CVD). This technique enables us to synthesize the desired materials with high efficiency and reproducibility.
The chemical and physical properties of the synthesized materials were characterized using a wide range of microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and low energy electron microscopy (LEEM), helped us understand the morphological structure and crystallinity of our materials. These techniques provided detailed images and insights into the arrangement and quality of the synthesized 2-dimensional layers. Complementarily, spectroscopic characterization, such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy, was used to confirm the presence of the desired elements and their chemical environment. These methods allowed us to analyze the bonding and electronic states of the elements within the materials.
Additionally, synchrotron experiments were performed to verify whether the materials we synthesized had the desired electronic properties. Synchrotron radiation provided high-resolution data on the electronic structure, enabling us to assess the potential applications of these materials in electronic devices. Overall, the combination of these advanced characterization techniques ensured a comprehensive understanding of the synthesized materials' properties and their potential for future technological applications.
PhD dissertations
Approximately one week after the defence, PhD dissertations by Leiden PhD students are available digitally through the Leiden Repository, that offers free access to these PhD dissertations. Please note that in some cases a dissertation may be under embargo temporarily and access to its full-text version will only be granted later.
Press enquiries (journalists only)
+31 (0)71 527 1521
nieuws@leidenuniv.nl
General information
Beadle's Office
pedel@bb.leidenuniv.nl
+31 71 527 7211