The Atomic Structure of Oxide/Oxide Interface

Abstract

The physical and chemical properties of thin or ultrathin oxide film deposited on another oxide bulk or thin film usually differ strongly from the bulk. The properties of the heterostructures ultimately rely on the structure and the chemistry of the oxide/oxide interface. Data in the literature indicated that atomically abrupt interfaces between oxides show abnormal electronic and magnetic properties. This article reviews the interfacial structures of oxide/oxide interfaces in an atomic scale. The origins of the unique physical and chemical properties at the oxide/oxide interfaces are also discussed.

Keywords:

• oxide/oxide interface
• oxide thin film
• oxide ultrathin film
• atomic interfacial structure

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The author thanks the financial support from La Trobe University and the constructive comments from the referees.