Atomic scale depletion region at one dimensional MoSe₂ -WSe₂ heterointerface

Lateral heterojunctions based on two dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) potentially realize monolayer devices exploiting 2D electronic structures and the functions introduced by the presence of 1D heterointerfaces. Electronic structures of a lateral MoSe ₂ -WSe ₂ junction have been unveiled using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. A smooth and narrow depletion region exists despite a defect-rich heterointerface deviating from the preferred zigzag orientations of the TMDC lattice. From the characteristics of the depletion region, a high carrier concentration and high internal electric fields are inferred, offering to benefit designs of lateral TMDC devices.