Hybrid Chiral MoS2 Layers for Spin-Polarized Charge Transport and Spin-Dependent Electrocatalytic Applications

The chiral-induced spin selectivity effect enables the application of chiral organic materials for spintronics and spin-dependent electrochemical applications. It is demonstrated on various chiral monolayers, in which their conversion efficiency is limited. On the other hand, relatively high spin polarization (SP) is observed on bulk chiral materials; however, their poor electronic conductivities limit their application. Here, the design of chiral MoS2 with a high SP and high conductivity is reported. Chirality is introduced to the MoS2 layers through the intercalation of methylbenzylamine molecules. This design approach activates multiple tunneling channels in the chiral layers, which results in an SP as high as 75%. Furthermore, the spin selectivity suppresses the production of H2O2 by-product and promotes the formation of ground state O-2 molecules during the oxygen evolution reaction. These potentially improve the catalytic activity of chiral MoS2. The synergistic effect is demonstrated as an interplay of the high SP and the high catalytic activity of the MoS2 layer on the performance of the chiral MoS2 for spin-dependent electrocatalysis. This novel approach employed here paves way for the development of other novel chiral systems for spintronics and spin-dependent electrochemical applications.

Automated summary

The design of chiral MoS2 with high spin polarization and high conductivity is reported in this study. The chirality is introduced through the intercalation of methylbenzylamine molecules, which activates multiple tunneling channels and results in a spin polarization as high as 75%. The chiral MoS2 material exhibits high catalytic activity and the ability to suppress the production of by-products, providing a new direction for spintronics and spin-dependent electrochemical applications.