Nano-scale dynamics of hydrogen in VO${}_2$ studied by $\hat{I}¼$SR

Abstract

Hydrogen dynamics in the nanoscale region of VO${}_2$ was investigated by muon spin rotation/relaxation ($\hat{I}¼$SR) technique. Positively charged muon acts as a light radioisotope of proton and can be used as a probe to explore the inside of materials from an atomic perspective. By analyzing the muon hopping rate and the spatial distribution of the ${}^{51}$V nuclear magnetic moments, we have identified two types of diffusion paths in VO${}_2$ (via oxygen-muon bonds or defects) and the potential of a high diffusion coefficient in the 10${}^{-10}$ cm${}^2$/s range at ambient temperature. Our results provide valuable information for developing hydrogen-driven VO${}_2$--related electronic devices.

6 pages, 4 figures, supplemental material available at the Physical. Rev. Mater. journal site