Robust quantum point contact operation of narrow graphene constrictions patterned by AFM cleavage lithography

Abstract

Detecting conductance quantization in graphene nanostructures turned out more challenging than expected. The observation of well-defined conductance plateaus through graphene nanoconstrictions so far has only been accessible in the highest quality suspended or h-BN encapsulated devices. However, reaching low conductance quanta in zero magnetic field, is a delicate task even with such ultra-high mobility devices. Here, we demonstrate a simple AFM-based nanopatterning technique for defining graphene constrictions with high precision (down to 10 nm width) and reduced edge-roughness (+/−1 nm). The patterning process is based on the in-plane mechanical cleavage of graphene by the AFM tip, along its high symmetry crystallographic directions. As-defined, narrow graphene constrictions with improved edge quality enable an unprecedentedly robust QPC operation, allowing the observation of conductance quantization even on standard SiO₂/Si substrates, down to low conductance quanta. Conductance plateaus, were observed at n × e²/h, evenly spaced by 2 × e²/h (corresponding to n = 3, 5, 7, 9, 11) in the absence of an external magnetic field, while spaced by e²/h (n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) in 8 T magnetic field.