Author:T Grenet a, F Giroud a, K Loubet a, A Bergman a, G Safran b, J Labar b, P Barna b, JL Joulaud c, M Capitan c

Institute: LEPES-CNRS, BP 166, 38042 Grenoble, Cedex 9, France; RITPMS H-1121 Budapest Konkoly-Thege ut 29-33, Hungary; ESRF BP 220, 38043 Grenoble Cedex, France

The preparation and transport properties of thin films of quasicrystals are important aspects of modern materials science. Quasicrystals, which have order but not periodicity, open up new horizons for creating unique films with specified characteristics. In the process of producing thin films of quasicrystals, various methods are used, including molecular epitaxy, magnetron sputtering and spinning. Each of these methods has its own advantages, allowing you to control the thickness and structure of films at the nanoscale.

The transport properties of such films, including electrical and thermal conductivity, depend on the distribution of atoms and the presence of defects in their structure.                                                 

Quasicrystals exhibit abnormally low thermal conductivity values, which makes them promising for use in thermal insulation materials. In addition, their electronics open up new possibilities for creating sensors and high-performance batteries.

Research in this area continues to advance the understanding of quasicrystalline systems, facilitating the development of new technologies and innovative solutions needed to meet today’s demand for high-performance materials.