Chemistry Seminar with Dr. Julia Chan from Baylor University at 4:00pm

Abstract

The growth, characterization, and physical properties of new systems and architectures of novel classes of materials are essential for advancing the field of highly correlated systems. Solid-state synthesis remains challenging due to the unpredictability of phase formation, temperature profiles, and reaction ratios. However, solid-state chemists have developed chemical heuristics, such as periodic trends, the Zintl-Klemm concept, Pauling’s rules, valence electron concentration, and geometrical constraints, to predict outcomes.

Our goal is to study the growth of materials to understand the interplay between itinerant electrons and localized magnetic moments in “bulk heterostructures” of intermetallics, which is crucial for comprehending magnetism and emergent behavior. I will introduce a new platform aimed at discovering a new class of heavy electron systems within the context of topological metals with strong correlations. Although selecting new phases and their corresponding growth and synthesis is complex, our extensive experience with diverse materials and careful candidate selection make our efforts an ideal starting point for studying the interplay of magnetism and correlations. Here, I will outline our strategy to discover and grow the most promising intermetallic candidates.