Modification of Defect Structures in Graphene by Electron Irradiation: Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Defects play an important role on the unique properties of the sp2-bonded materials, such as graphene. The creation and evolution of mono-vacancy, di-vacancy, Stone-Wales (SW) and grain boundaries (GBs) under irradiation in graphene are investigated using density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory molecular dynamics simulations. It is of great interest to note that the patterns of these defects can be controlled through electron irradiation. The SW defects can be created by electron irradiation with energy of above the displacement threshold energy (Td, {approx}19 eV) and can be healed with an energy (14-18 eV) lower than Td. The transformation between four types of divacancies, V2(5-8-5), V2(555-777), V2(5555-6-7777), and V2(55-77) can be realized through bond rotation induced by electron irradiation. The migrations of divancancies, SW defects, and GBs can also be controlled by electron irradiation. Thus, electron irradiation can serve as an important tool to modify morphology in a controllable manner, and to tailor the physical properties of graphene.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States). Environmental Molecular Sciences Lab. (EMSL)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 1051191
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-89161; 46394; KC0201020; TRN: US201218%%1296
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Physical Chemistry C, Vol. 116, Issue 30; ISSN 1932-7447
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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