When light passes through a pair of slightly misaligned periodic structures, a beautiful and intricate pattern called the moiré effect occurs. This phenomenon is common in materials science and has significant implications for the properties of materials. Researchers at the University of Tokyo’s Institute of Industrial Science have discovered a new type of moiré pattern in tungsten ditelluride, a material with an unusual crystal structure.
By experimenting with larger twist angles, the researchers found that the material’s structure influences the phenomenon, resulting in unexpected patterns. Specifically, they discovered a series of one-dimensional bands, which are distinct from previously known patterns. The team used theoretical modeling and transmission electron microscopy to pinpoint the exact twist angles required to produce this pattern.
The researchers noted that the patterns are sensitive to even small changes in twist angle, and that other materials may also exhibit similar one-dimensional patterns at large twist angles. They emphasized the potential for new discoveries in the field of one-dimensional phenomena and the potential applications of this research.