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Title
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Unusual ultra-low-frequency fluctuations in freestanding graphene
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Author
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Abstract
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| Intrinsic ripples in freestanding graphene have been exceedingly difficult to study. Individual ripple geometry was recently imaged using scanning tunnelling microscopy, but these measurements are limited to static configurations. Thermally-activated flexural phonon modes should generate dynamic changes in curvature. Here we show how to track the vertical movement of a one-square-angstrom region of freestanding graphene using scanning tunnelling microscopy, thereby allowing measurement of the out-of-plane time trajectory and fluctuations over long time periods. We also present a model from elasticity theory to explain the very-low-frequency oscillations. Unexpectedly, we sometimes detect a sudden colossal jump, which we interpret as due to mirror buckling. This innovative technique provides a much needed atomic-scale probe for the time-dependent behaviours of intrinsic ripples. The discovery of this novel progenitor represents a fundamental advance in the use of scanning tunnelling microscopy, which together with the application of a thermal load provides a low-frequency nano-resonator. |
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Language
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English
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Source (journal)
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Nature communications
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Publication
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2014
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ISSN
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2041-1723
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DOI
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10.1038/NCOMMS4720
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Volume/pages
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5
(2014)
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Article Reference
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3720
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ISI
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000335223200007
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Medium
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E-only publicatie
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Full text (Publisher's DOI)
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