Graphene-nickel interface: hybridization and magnetization

The unique properties of graphene have opened up a new avenue for fundamental research as well as technological applications. Whereas the in-plane $sp^{2}$ bonding is primarily responsible for the overall structural stability and mechanical strength of graphene, the out-of-plane pp-$\pi$ states control its transport and interfacing properties. In this talk, we present a first principles study of the of single layer graphene/Ni(111) interface. We discuss how hybridization between the carbon pp-$\pi$ and nickel d orbitals modifies the electronic and magnetic properties of the interface. \\ \\ We acknowledge the computational support provided by the Center for Computational Research at the University at Buffalo, SUNY. This work is supported by the Department of Energy under Grant No. DE-SC0002623 and by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. DMR-0946404.