Switchable topological polar states in epitaxial BaTiO nanoislands on silicon.

A fascinating aspect of nanoscale ferroelectric materials is the emergence of topological polar textures, which include various complex and stable polarization configurations. The manipulation of such topological textures through external stimuli like electric fields holds promise for advanced nanoelectronics applications. There are, however, several challenges to reach potential applications, among which reliably creating and controlling these textures at the nanoscale on silicon, and with lead-free compounds.

In-Situ Analysis of Anionic Coordination Polymerizations by Electrospray-Ionization Mass Spectrometry.

Anionic coordination polymerizations proceed via highly reactive intermediates, whose in situ analysis has remained difficult. Here, we show that electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry is a promising method to obtain detailed information on the polymerization process. Focusing on polymerization reactions of 1,3-dienes initiated by CoCl /RLi (R=Me, nBu, tBu, Ph), we directly observe the growing polymer chains and characterize the active anionic cobalt centers by gas-phase fragmentation experiments.