posted on 2021-11-18, 19:37authored byLei Zhang, Yuantong Gu, Aijun Du
Janus two-dimensional
materials with large Rashba spin splitting
and high electron mobility are rarely reported but highly desired
for nanoscale spintronics. Herein, using density functional theory
calculations, we predicated Janus Sb2SexTe3–x (x = 1 or 2) monolayers simultaneously harboring these fascinating
properties. The predicated monolayers are indirect semiconductors
with great dynamical, thermal, and mechanical stability. The spin–orbital
coupling (SOC) and the out-of-plane asymmetry lead to Rashba spin
splitting at the conduction band minimum (CBM), which can be effectively
tuned by the small uniaxial strain. The strong band dispersion at
the CBM leads to small electron effective mass, consequently enabling
a high electron mobility that reaches up to 6816.63 cm2 V–1 s–1. Moreover, Janus Sb2SexTe3–x monolayers possess great light absorption capability within
the visible and infrared regions of solar light. Our findings highlight
promising candidates for high-speed spintronic devices and may motivate
more research efforts on carrier transport and SOC effects in Janus
group V and VI monolayers.