Evaluating the Role of Interfacial Friction in 2D Materials Systems

The electronic properties of two-dimensional materials can be dramatically modified by introducing a twist between adjacent layers. Termed twistronics, this enables a new type of materials design in which dynamically twisted fabricated devices can allow in situ tuning between dramatically different ground states. In order to fully realize the goal of such reconfigurable devices, a detailed understanding of both actuation forces and dissipative friction forces are required. Here we present recent progress in both efforts including efforts towards realizing dynamic twist angle control using contact-free manipulation, as well as improved quantitative understanding of the various contributions to rotational friction in van der Waals heterostructures. Prospects for realizing a new generation of 2D MEMS devices based on 2D materials will be discussed.