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    Recent Progress in Ultrafast Spin Dynamics in Two-Dimensional van der Waals Antiferromagnets
    LI Jin-yang , WU Fang-liang , ZHANG Qi
    Progress in Physics    2024, 44 (6): 293-308.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2024.06.003
    Abstract1208)      PDF (4771KB)(1450)      

    Antiferromagnets exhibit high-speed spin responses in the terahertz frequency range and robustness against external magnetic fields, making them promising for nextgeneration high-speed, high-density spintronic devices. Recently, two-dimensional van der Waals magnetic systems, which possess rich antiferromagnetic ground states, have gained significant attention and serve as ideal platforms for studying low-dimensional antiferromagnetic physics. Detecting and controlling ultrafast spin dynamics in two-dimensional antiferromagnetic systems will lay the foundation for high-speed spintronic device applications. Antiferromagnets have no net macroscopic magnetization, making traditional optical methods, such as magneto-optical effects, challenging for detecting antiferromagnetic order in equilibrium states. However, in non-equilibrium states, the instantaneous magnetization generated by antiferromagnetic spin dynamics allows the use of time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect to detect coherent spin precession in antiferromagnets. Additionally, techniques such as linear dichroism spectroscopy, terahertz emission spectroscopy, and second harmonic generation have been employed in studying the dynamics of two-dimensional antiferromagnets. This paper introduces recent experimental progress on ultrafast spin dynamics in two-dimensional van der Waals antiferromagnetic systems, and briefly describes the coherent magnon excitations and corresponding mechanisms in two-dimensional antiferromagnets, including inverse magneto-optical effects/stimulated Raman scattering, orbital excitations, and exciton coupling. Furthermore, this paper discusses the critical slowing down of spin dynamics due to spin-lattice coupling effects and the amplification of coherent acoustic phonons.

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    Image Sensor Based on Halide Perovskite
    ZHANG Qiang, DONG Hao-tian, BAO Chun-xiong
    Progress in Physics    2024, 44 (6): 278-292.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2024.06.002
    Abstract981)      PDF (5446KB)(707)      

    Image sensors have extensive applications in both industrial and everyday settings. For example, X-ray sensors are widely used in medical imaging and security screening; visible light sensors are essential in facial recognition and smart devices; near-infrared sensors are crucial for biometric identification. Currently, these image sensors mainly utilize photodetectors based on silicon, germanium, or III-V group semiconductors. However, these sensors exhibit certain limitations, such as low light utilization efficiency in color image sensors and the occurrence of moiré patterns. Metal halide perovskites have emerged as a promising material for high-performance photodetectors due to their excellent optoelectronic properties, including high light absorption coefficients, tunable bandgaps, and high defect tolerance. This review summarizes the research advancements in image sensors based on metal halide perovskites, evaluates the current performance gap between these sensors and commercial devices, and suggests potential improvements to bridge this gap.

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    Investigation on the Electrical and Thermal Transport Properties of BiCuXO (X=S, Se, Te) Crystals
    TIAN Hao, DONG Song-tao, LI Yi-chi, LÜ Yang-yang, ZHOU Jian, CHEN Yan-bin, YAO Shu-hua
    Progress in Physics    2024, 44 (6): 259-277.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2024.06.001
    Abstract967)      PDF (10894KB)(699)      

    BiCuXO (X=S, Se, Te), a layered oxide material, has garnered significant attention due to its exceptional electrical transport properties and inherently low thermal conductivity, positioning it as a prospective candidate for high-performance thermoelectric applications. The optimization of material physical properties is intrinsically linked to an in-depth investigation of the crystallographic properties. This study initially presents a meticulous account of the growth procedures for BiCuXO crystals, elucidating the enhancement of electrical transport characteristics through the modulation of carrier concentrations via growth methodologies and elemental doping. A comparative analysis with ceramic samples documented in the literature is also provided. Subsequently, the paper delves into the electrical and thermal transport properties of BiCuXO crystals. The electrical transport properties encompass conductive behavior, scattering mechanisms, and magnetic resistance evolution. The thermal transport performance is mainly studied through inelastic neutron scattering and Raman experiments, combined with first principles calculations to investigate the physical mechanism of its extremely low thermal conductivity. The paper culminates with an exposition on the application of BiCuSeO crystals in photothermal electricity, harnessing the thermoelectric effect. By summarizing the growth methodologies of BiCuXO crystals and examining their electrical, thermal, and photothermal properties, this paper endeavors to offer theoretical insights and experimental guidance for the enhancement of BiCuXO material performance.

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    Two-Dimensional Transistors beyond Silicon Counterparts: From Theory to Experiment
    LI Hong , XU Lin , QIU Chenguang , LU Jing
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (3): 118-131.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.03.002
    Abstract929)      PDF (2085KB)(890)      

    Due to the severe short-channel effects, silicon-based transistors cannot work well when the gate length is shorter than 10 nm. Moore’s law is at risk of failure. Compared to bulk semiconductor materials, two-dimensional (2D) materials own better electrostatic features and higher carrier mobilities. To describe the transport properties of transistors at the nanometer scale, the first-principles quantum transport simulation based on density functional theory coupled with non-equilibrium Green’s function method is the most precise theoretical tool. The device performances of ideal 2D transistors are predicted to surpass those of silicon-based transistors based on the first-principles quantum transport simulation, which can meet the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS) and International Roadmap for Device and Systems (IRDS) requirements for the next decade and extend Moore’s law to sub-10 nm gate lengths . We review dramatic experimental breakthroughs on 2D transistors in the recent two years, including shrinking the gate length to the Angstrom scale, descending the electrode contact resistance to the quantum limit, and fabricating high-quality and ultrathin dielectric. When Ohmic contacts and high-quality ultrathin dielectric layers are simultaneously realized, theoretically predicted superior performances beyond silicon are observed in 10-nmgate InSe transistors experimentally. 

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    Research Progress on Two-Dimensional Multiferroic Materials and Their Magnetoelectric Properties
    ZHENG Hongqian , HU Ting , HUANG Chengxi , DU Yongping , WAN Yi
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (3): 105-117.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.03.001
    Abstract850)      PDF (9286KB)(1625)      

    In recent years, multiferroic materials, which possess both ferromagnetic and ferroelectric properties, have attracted intense attention from researchers due to their novel and rich physical characteristics, as well as their broad potential applications in fields such as information storage and sensor technologies. As understanding of the properties of multiferroic materials deepens, researchers have begun to explore their behavior at smaller scales, particularly focusing on two-dimensional (2D) materials. Compared to three-dimensional (3D) materials, 2D materials, owing to their unique structural features and significant size effects, often exhibit more superior performance in terms of mechanical, optical, thermal, and magnetic properties. However, it is noteworthy that current research on 2D multiferroic materials is primarily concentrated on theoretical predictions, with experimental progress lagging behind. In this context, this paper first briefly reviews the development history of multiferroic materials, then elaborates on the characteristics and advantages of 2D materials, and discusses the potential applications of 2D multiferroic materials. Subsequently, the paper provides an overview of the current research status, covering related physical phenomena and mechanisms, experimental preparation methods, performance regulation technologies, and characterization techniques. Furthermore, this paper also enumerates potential 2D multiferroic materials predicted by theory and, based on this, delves into the challenges faced by current research and future directions for development. 

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    A Brief History of Electronic Development
    SHI Feng , LIU Jin-hua , ZHANG Ling-cui , XU Yue , LOU You-xin , SHEN Yan , ZHAO Jin-bo
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (2): 79-104.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.02.003
    Abstract771)      PDF (516KB)(1648)      

    Electron is an inseparable part of atom. The ancients believed that atoms could not be divied, and it was not until the late 19th century that Thomson discovered the existence of electron, which proved that atom is redividable. After that, the complex and challenging journey to uncover the volatility of electrons, electron spin, and positrons led to groundbreaking discoveries, which resulted in numerous of Nobel Prizes were awarded in Physics. The discovery of electron played an important role in promoting the birth of quantum mechani. It was through the meticulous examination of atomic structure models that the scientists progressively ventured into the realms of quantum mechanics and quantum field theory. Similarly, electrons have played a positive role in promoting our understanding of various materials, leading to the development of to many theories, such as Lorentz’s free electron theory, Sommerfeld model, and band theory. Especially band theory has led to a revolution in modern electronic technology, ushering humanity into the information age. 

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    Second-Order Topological Insulators in 2D Electronic Materials 
    FENG Xiao-ran , NIU Cheng-wang ∗ , HUANG Bai-biao , DAI Ying
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (1): 1-31.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.01.001
    Abstract684)      PDF (11565KB)(535)      

    Higher-order band topology not only enriches our understanding of topological phases but also unveils pioneering lower-dimensional boundary states, which harbors substantial potential for next-generation device applications. The distinct electronic configurations and tunable attributes of two-dimensional materials position them as a quintessential platform for the realization of second-order topological insulators (SOTIs). This article provides an overview of the research progress in SOTIs within the field of two-dimensional electronic materials, focusing on the characterization of higher-order topological properties and the numerous candidate materials proposed in theoretical studies. These endeavors not only enhance our understanding of higher-order topological states but also highlight potential material systems that could be experimentally realized. 

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    Mass Production of High-Quality Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes with Controllable Conductive Properties
    YANG Ke-han , WANG Chao , YUAN Guo-wen , GAO Li-bo
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (1): 47-54.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.01.003
    Abstract482)      PDF (3199KB)(513)      

    Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are highly promising due to their exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and thermal properties. Currently, the floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition (FCCVD) method is a common approach for large-scale production of SWCNTs. However, the purity and quality of SWCNTs obtained by this method are insufficient, and the electrical properties of the samples are poorly controllable. The coexistence of metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes (m-SWCNTs) and semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (s-SWCNTs) limits further applications. To achieve continuous growth of high-quality, high-purity SWCNTs with a controllable electrical property, this paper proposes a method that involves placing a plug to retain SWCNTs in the high-temperature zone for sustained growth and applying an electric field to selectively grow SWCNTs with a single electrical property, ultimately resulting in high-purity semiconducting-enriched SWCNTs. We systematically analyze the purity of SWCNTs and the proportion of s-SWCNTs using optical images, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. This work provides a solution for the large-scale production of high-quality, high-purity SWCNTs and is expected to accelerate the industrial application of SWCNTs.

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    Research Progress on the Influence of Terahertz Waves on Neurotransmitter Synaptic Transmission
    CHEN Chen , DING Hong-ming , MA Yu-qiang
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (1): 32-46.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.01.002
    Abstract473)      PDF (2539KB)(587)      

    Terahertz waves are a type of electromagnetic wave between microwaves and infrared waves. Due to its physical properties such as strong penetration, non-ionization and strong absorption, and the ability to achieve non-contact regulation of synaptic transmission, it has shown great application prospects. The synaptic transmission process is closely related to neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the response of terahertz waves to the synaptic transmission process has a guiding role in the prevention and treatment of related diseases. This paper first introduces the physical properties of terahertz waves, biological effects and related concepts of synaptic transmission in detail, and then focuses on the influence of terahertz waves on the synaptic transmission process, namely the presynaptic, synaptic cleft and postsynaptic stages. Finally, the potential application of terahertz waves in the future synaptic transmission process is summarized and prospected.

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    Techniques and Applications of Cell Stiffness Testing
    XUE Zhuan-zhuan , HU Huan , Oleksiy Penkov
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (2): 55-70.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.02.001
    Abstract456)      PDF (11565KB)(319)      

    The measurement of cell stiffness is of great significance in many fields such as biology, medicine and materials science. In order to understand the biomechanical properties and functions of cells, this review first discusses the important application fields of measuring cell stiffness, including tissue engineering, cartilage disease diagnosis, cancer diagnosis and drug development. Secondly, five major measurement techniques are introduced in detail: micro-pillar array method, optical tweezers method, magnetic tweezers method, atomic force microscopy measurement method (AFM), biomembrane force probe measurement method, and the potential and challenges of these five technologies in practical applications are prospected. With its nanometer-level spatial resolution and piconewton-level force resolution, AFM has become a powerful and unique tool in the field of cell mechanics measurement. Therefore, this review focuses on the application and importance of AFM technology and its related computational model, the Hertz model of microsphere-cell contact, in this field, and further elaborates on the types and characteristics of various existing AFM instruments, as well as their application performance in cell mechanics measurement

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    Measurement methods of magnetic fields in laboratory astrophysics
    SHI Chuanqi , YUAN Dawei , ZHAO Gang
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (3): 151-159.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.03.004
    Abstract340)      PDF (5979KB)(647)      

    Magnetic fields are ubiquitous in the universe, such as Earth, Sun, supernova remnants, nebulae, giants, neutron stars, black holes and so on. Despite their widespread presence, there remain numerous unanswered questions about astronomical magnetic fields. For instance, how are initial magnetic fields generated? How do magnetic fields undergo amplification? With the advent of high-power, high-energy laser facilities, laboratory astrophysics provides a new method to the study of astrophysical problems in a controlled laboratory setting, where researchers recreate extreme physical conditions similar to those found in astrophysical objects or their surroundings. The benefits of this method include the short distance, activity, controlled condition and reproducibility. Under the scaling laws, laboratory plasmas can study the origin and amplification of astrophysical magnetic fields. Various measurement techniques are employed in current laboratory studies to assess magnetic fields, including magnetic probes, magnetic tapes, Zeeman effect, Faraday rotation, and proton radiography. Understanding the principles and characteristics of these diagnostic methods is essential in selecting the appropriate method for measuring magnetic fields in experiments. 

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    Research Processes on the Using of Proton Radiography in Laser Driven Magnetic Reconnection Experiments
    HAN Bo
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (2): 71-78.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.02.002
    Abstract297)      PDF (9202KB)(314)      

    Magnetic reconnection is an important basic physics progress, and laser driven magnetic reconnection experiment is a major research method. Proton radiography can accurately measure the magnetic filed of plasma, and it has been widely used in laser driven magnetic reconnection experiment. Currently, there are two methods to reconstruct the magnetic field from the experimental proton radiograph, ie. flux analysis and particle tracing. At the beginning, the researches only obtain the magnetic field qualitatively. With the development of technology, at present the accurate strength and distribution of magnetic field in the reconnection region can be reconstructed. It supplies many possibilities in the research of magnetic reconnection. This paper reviews several important results measured by proton radiography in laser driven magnetic reconnection experiments, and aims to provide a reference for researchers in related fields.

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    Axion Insulator and Transport Property
    LI Siqing, DING Yueran, CHEN Chuizhen
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (3): 132-150.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.03.003
    Abstract276)      PDF (5137KB)(149)      

    Research on axion insulators in condensed matter physics has generated widespread attention in recent years. Axion insulators exhibit an electromagnetic response similar to that of the hypothetical elementary particle-axion-proposed in high-energy physics, leading to phenomena such as half-quantized surface Hall conductivity or topological magnetoelectric effects in the system. Recently, transport experiments on three-dimensional magnetic topological insulator heterojunctions and intrinsic magnetic topological insulators like MnBi2Te4 have revealed signatures of the existence of axion insulators. However, precise measurement of the half-quantized electromagnetic response of axion insulators remains challenging. In this review, we summarize the theoretical and experimental progress in axion insulator research within magnetic topological insulating materials. We discuss the excitation of halfquantized edge currents in axion insulators due to the bulk-boundary correspondence, as well as a transport theory based on half-magnetic topological insulators for half-quantized Hall conductivity. Finally, we explore disorder-induced phase transitions in axion insulators, including the universality classes of two-dimensional quantum Hall-like conductivity transitions on the surface, and propose methods to detect axion insulators using the universal characteristics of these phase transitions.

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    Progress in Preparation and Performance Optimization of 3D/2D Halide Perovskite Heterojunction
    HE Shengrong , XING Jun , YAO Xiaolong , MA Xiaoman , LI Peng
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (4): 169-194.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.04.002
    Abstract74)      PDF (8487KB)(45)      

    Halide perovskite materials have emerged as a research hotspot in new energy technologies due to their remarkable advantages in photoelectric conversion efficiency, while three-dimensional (3D)/two-dimensional (2D) perovskite heterojunctions have attracted particular attention owing to their unique band structures and flexible regulation capabilities for carrier behavior. This review focuses on the controllable preparation and performance optimization of 3D/2D halide perovskite heterojunctions. It first summarizes the concept, advantages, and conventional preparation methods of 3D/2D perovskite heterojunctions, including solid-liquid post-spin-coating methods, solid-gas vapor deposition approaches, and solidsolid reaction techniques. Subsequently, effective strategies for enhancing the performance of 3D/2D perovskite heterojunctions through interface engineering, material engineering, and device structure optimization are systematically explored. The review then comprehensively summarizes and evaluates recent research progress in the application of 3D/2D heterojunctions in solar cells and photodetectors. Finally, current challenges regarding the stability and environmental adaptability of 3D/2D perovskite heterojunctions are discussed, along with systematic perspectives on future development trends in this research field. This work aims to provide feasible ideas and optimization schemes for realizing the widespread application of 3D/2D perovskite heterojunctions in photoelectric fields.

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    Optimizing the generation of second harmonic optical vortices from nonlinear photonic crystals 
    LIU Shiqiang , ZHANG Xinyu, CHEN Yan, LI Shifeng, ZHAO Gang, ZHU Shining , HU Xiaopeng
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (4): 191-168.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.04.001
    Abstract56)      PDF (951KB)(24)      

    The generation of optical vortices from nonlinear photonic crystals (NPCs) with spatially modulated second-order nonlinearity offers a promising approach to extend the working wavelength and topological charge of vortex beams for various applications. In this work, the second harmonic (SH) optical vortex beams generated from nonlinear fork gratings under Gaussian beam illumination are numerically investigated. The far-field intensity and phase distributions, as well as the orbital angular momentum (OAM) spectra of the SH beams, are analyzed for different structural topological charges and diffraction orders. Results reveal that higher-order diffraction and larger structural topological charges lead to angular interference patterns and non-uniform intensity distributions, deviating from the standard vortex profile. To optimize the SH vortex quality, the effects of the fundamental wave beam waist, crystal thickness, and grating duty cycle are explored. It is shown that increasing the beam waist can effectively suppress diffraction order interference and improve the beam’s quality. This study provides theoretical guidance for enhancing the performance of nonlinear optical devices based on NPCs.

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    Excited-State Dynamics of Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
    QIN Chunbo , ZHANG Chunfeng
    Progress in Physics    2025, 45 (4): 195-207.   DOI: 10.13725/j.cnki.pip.2025.04.003
    Abstract48)      PDF (5372KB)(19)      

    Two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides exhibit strong light-matter interactions and pronounced excitonic effects, the study of their excited-state dynamics is essential for advancing both fundamental research and technological applications. This review summarizes recent advances in the investigation of excited-state dynamics in monolayer transition metal chalcogenides and their van der Waals heterostructures. Specifically, we discuss the generation and recombination dynamics of excitons in monolayers, as well as interlayer excitons in heterostructures. Particular emphasis is placed on interlayer charge transfer and the influence of stacking angles and moiré superlattices on excited-state dynamics. Finally, we highlight open questions in the field and provide an outlook on future research directions. 

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