Synthesis of Neutral Copper Oxide Clusters for High Magnetic Moments

Copper is a versatile material that has been used for at least 10,000 years. Copper adopts an oxidation state of either Cu(I) (Cu2O) or Cu(II) (CuO). However, the interactions between copper and oxygen, particularly as they relate to chemical bonding, energetics and magnetic ordering, are still not fully understood. Copper oxide (CuO) conducts spins well due to its open-shell nature, acting as an antiferromagnet (AFM). In contrast, cuprous oxide (Cu₂O) is a diamagnetic spin insulator owing to filled Cu 3d and O 2p bands. Because there are intermediate stoichiometries that exhibit defect and vacancy sites, the magnetic moment may be systematically tuned for spintronic applications. Thus, there is interest in developing approaches to tailor the local copper oxide environment and tune electrochemical, catalytic, magnetic and superconducting properties.

 

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered that gas phase copper oxide clusters can be synthesized with unique structures, such as the formation of μ2-Ο sites, which enable large magnetic moments of the clusters. The properties and structural features of these copper oxide clusters can be modified to change excited-state lifetimes and magnetic behavior, making them excellent candidates for use in spintronics, magnetic and quantum computing applications.

 

This technology explores the ultrafast relaxation and magnetic properties of copper oxide clusters to tailor materials for quantum computing, advanced electronic, and spintronic applications.

 

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