March 6, 2026
@
3:00 AM
–
12:00 PM
Location TBD
Pushing the Limits of 2D Janus Layers
Abstract:
Named after the two faced Roman God Janus, 2D Janus layers contain two different atomic types on its top and bottom faces. Previous theoretical studies have shown that broken mirror symmetry together with large change transfer across the top and bottom face opens up completely new quantum properties including Rashba effect, colossal Janus field, dipolar excitons, and Skyrmion formation. Despite the theoretical advances in the field, experimental results are still limited due to limitations in high quality 2D Janus layer synthesis. In this talk, I will introduce recent discoveries made at Arizona State University towards different types of Janus layers. The growth process relies on Plasma enhanced low pressure chemical vapor deposition (PE-LPCVD). With this all room temperature technique, our team can synthesize different Janus layers as well as their vertical / lateral heterojunctions, and Janus nanoscrolls. Further studies from our team will introduce on-demand fabrication of 2D Janus layers with unique in-situ growth capabilities that allows us to collect spectroscopy data during the course of Janus material growth. Results are presented along with microscopy, spectroscopy, high – pressure studies, and electronic transport datasets for complete understanding of these systems.
Professor Seth Ariel Tongay
Bio:
Professor Seth Ariel Tongay is an internationally recognized materials scientist and engineer whose research bridges fundamental discoveries and real-world manufacturing of next-generation semiconductors. He serves as one of the research directors of College of Engineering at Arizona State University, home to the largest engineering college in the United States.
Prof. Tongay’s research focuses on lab-to-fab integration of emergent semiconductor materials, addressing key challenges in metal interconnects, stress liner technologies, and advanced device architectures such as FinFETs and gate-all-around (GAA) transistors. He is particularly known for his seminal contributions to two dimensional (2D) materials, including Janus semiconductors and the discovery of quasi-one- dimensional (quasi-1D) layered systems.
He has published over 350 peer-reviewed papers and holds an h-index of 86, reflecting his high impact across materials science, nanotechnology, and semiconductor physics. His work has been recognized with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), NSF CAREER Award, and fellowships from the American Physical Society, Royal Society of Chemistry, and the Institute of Physics.
Prof. Tongay is also an associate editor for Applied Physics Reviews (AIP) and npj 2D Materials and Applications (Nature). His research is supported by the CHIPS Act, NSF, DOE, ARO, and industry leaders including Intel and Applied Materials.