Recent Developments on Rare-Earth Hexaboride Nanowires

Abstract

With the rise of topological insulator samarium hexaboride (SmB6), rare-earth hexaboride (RB6) nanowires are the focus of the second wave of a research boom. Recent research has focused on new preparation methods, novel electronic properties, and extensive applications. Here, we review the recent developments in RB6 nanowires in the past five years. Two main synthesis methods (chemical vapor deposition and high-pressure solid-state) of RB6 nanowires are introduced and compared. Moreover, their electronic transport, magnetic properties, and superconducting properties are revealed. Furthermore, the applications of RB6 nanowires are presented, including as field emitters, photodetectors, and in energy storage. Finally, we detail further research directions for RB6 nanowires.