Machine-Learning-Assisted Micro-CVD Synthesis of Two-Dimensional WTe2

An image of a machine growing crystals in real time, monitored by optical microscopy and analyzed by machine-learning algorithms to reveal flake size, thickness, and growth dynamics.

Grow and watch quantum materials form in real time.

Project description

Two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials offer unique electrical and optical properties for future electronic and sensing technologies. Tungsten ditelluride (WTe2) is especially promising due to its topological semimetal behavior, yet reproducible and controlled synthesis of high-quality WTe2 remains a challenge. This project will leverage the existing micro-scale chemical vapor deposition (micro-CVD) system equipped with in-situ optical microscopy to enable controlled nucleation and growth of WTe2 flakes. The undergraduate researchers will learn the fundamentals of 2D materials and CVD processing, and systematically vary precursor ratio, temperature, and gas flow to study how growth parameters influence crystal morphology and thickness. Optical images collected during synthesis will be analyzed using machine-learning (ML) tools to automate flake recognition and assess growth quality. 

Project outcome

Through this project, the undergraduate students will gain hands-on research experience and training to:

  1. Explain the scientific significance and emerging applications of 2D materials, with emphasis on WTe2 in electronic and quantum
    technologies.
  2. Safely operate a micro-CVD system and perform controlled synthesis experiments.
  3. Utilize ML-assisted optical image analysis to monitor and evaluate crystal growth.
  4. Correlate synthesis parameters with structural quality and material performance. 

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment Year long
Start time Spring
In-person, remote, or hybrid? In-person
Level of collaboration Individual student project
Benefits Potential stipend
Who is eligible

Juniors 

Seniors

Project mentor

Fei Yao

Associate Professor

Materials Design and Innovation

Phone: (716) 645-5403

Email: feiyao@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
Start the Digital Badge

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

  • Read an introduction to 2D materials and WTe₂.
  • Learn how chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grows atom-thin materials.
  • Review basic material characterization techniques, including optical microscope, Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy for 2D material investigation.
  • Write a brief goal and learning statement.

Keywords

materials design, material science, engineering