Mapping Band Alignment across Complex Oxide Heterointerfaces

Abstract

In this study, direct observation of the evolution of electronic structures across complex oxide interfaces has been revealed in the LaAlO(3)/SrTiO(3) model system using cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. The conduction and valence band structures across the LaAlO(3)/SrTiO(3) interface are spatially resolved at the atomic level by measuring the local density of states. This study directly maps out the electronic reconstructions and a built-in electric field in the polar LaAlO(3) layer. Results also clearly reveal the band bending and the notched band structure in the SrTiO(3) adjacent to the interface.