Phonon-dislocation interaction and its impact on thermal conductivity

This Perspective describes the phonon transport engineering with one-dimensional defects, i.e., dislocations, from both theoretical and experimental points of view. The classical models, modern atomistic simulations, and advanced experimental investigations on thermal conductivity reduction by dislocations are discussed. Particularly, the complex stress field induced by dislocations, the phonon-dislocation interaction mechanisms, and the anisotropic thermal transport in materials with well-oriented dislocations are emphasized. Further investigations of phonon-dislocation interactions in both theory and experiments are prospected at the end of the work. Published under an exclusive license by AIP Publishing.

Automated summary

This Perspective discusses the impact of one-dimensional defects, i.e. dislocations, on phonon transport engineering, including mechanisms of thermal conductivity reduction and complex stress fields induced by dislocations. The emphasis is placed on anisotropic thermal transport in materials with well-oriented dislocations. The article concludes with prospects for future research on phonon-dislocation interactions in theory and experiments.