Near room-temperature ferromagnetism in air-stable two-dimensional Cr1−xTe grown by chemical vapor deposition

Abstract

Identifying air-stable two-dimensional (2D) ferromagnetism with high Curie temperature (Tc) is highly desirable for its potential applications in next-generation spintronics. However, most of the work reported so far mainly focuses on promoting one specific key factor of 2D ferromagnetism (Tc or air stability), rather than comprehensive promotion of both of them. Herein, ultrathin Cr1−xTe crystals grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) show thickness-dependent Tc up to 285 K. The out-of-plane ferromagnetic order is well preserved down to atomically thin limit (2.0 nm), as evidenced by anomalous Hall effect observed in non-encapsulated samples. Besides, the CVD-grown Cr1−xTe nanosheets present excellent ambient stability, with no apparent change in surface roughness or electrical transport properties after exposure to air for months. Our work provides an alternative platform for investigation of intrinsic 2D ferromagnetism and development of innovative spintronic devices.