One-Dimensional Moiré Physics and Chemistry in Heterostrained Bilayer Graphene
Gabriel R. Schleder, Michele Pizzochero, Efthimios Kaxiras
Abstract
Twisted bilayer graphene (tBLG) has emerged as a promising platform for exploring exotic electronic phases. However, the formation of moiré patterns in tBLG has thus far been confined to the introduction of twist angles between the layers. Here, we propose heterostrained bilayer graphene (hBLG), as an alternative avenue for accessing twist angle-free moiré physics via lattice mismatch. Using atomistic and first-principles calculations, we demonstrate that the uniaxial heterostrain can promote isolated flat electronic bands around the Fermi level. Furthermore, the heterostrain-induced out-of-plane lattice relaxation may lead to a spatially modulated reactivity of the surface layer, paving the way for moiré-driven chemistry and magnetism. We anticipate that our findings can be readily generalized to other layered materials.