Studying dynamic control of quantum heterostructure interfaces with strain pulses

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The proposed project initiates a collaboration between Prof. Kenneth Beyerlein of INRS-EMT and Prof. Ankit Disa of Cornell University, to explore the dynamic properties of quantum interfaces. Quantum interfaces can exhibit novel electronic states, such as superconductivity, which are not found in either material individually. Precision thin film fabrication methods like molecular beam epitaxy can bring together a wide range of materials to tune the interaction of materials across such boundaries and realize a multitude of correlated states. The proposed project takes the next step by exploring how the interaction can also be tuned dynamically by exciting the atomic or electronic structure of one of the materials. This is a largely unexplored avenue of interfacial control, which can lead to new quantum states that are not realizable in equilibrium. Specifically, we seek to use ultrafast transmission electron microscopy measurements to study how strain pulses travelling from a MgO substrate to a BaTiO3 film influence the ferroelectric order near the interface. Funds are requested to cover fees associated with the personnel, travel and user fees of this experiment. This is the beginning of a collaboration that has the goal to define new and interesting directions to realize and characterize functional quantum materials.