Researchers at Rice University have successfully synthesized a new two-dimensional material, copper boride, on a copper substrate. The discovery was made by combining high-resolution imaging, spectroscopy, and theoretical modeling to analyze the properties of the material.
Unlike other materials like graphene, which forms an alloy with the substrate, boron atoms in this case formed a distinct 2D copper boride compound. This finding sets the stage for further exploration of a relatively untapped class of 2D materials.
The discovery was made possible by a detailed investigation that revealed periodic zigzag superstructure and distinct electronic signatures, which deviated significantly from known borophene phases. A strong match between experimental data and theoretical simulations helped resolve a debate about the nature of the material.
The researchers also found that the properties of copper boride could inform future studies of related compounds with technological relevance. Metal borides among ultra-high temperature ceramics are of great interest for extreme environments applications and hypersonic systems.
This discovery is part of a growing trend in research on 2D materials, which have broad potential use in applications ranging from electrochemical energy storage to quantum information technology. The researchers hope to explore this new family of 2D materials further.
The study was supported by the Office of Naval Research, the National Science Foundation, and the United States Department of Energy.
Source: https://news.rice.edu/news/2025/hopelessly-attached-scientists-discover-new-2d-material-sticks-landing