Quantum nickelate platform for future multidisciplinary research

Abstract

Perovskite nickelates belong to a family of strongly correlated materials, which have drawn broad attention due to their thermally induced metal-to-insulator transition. Recent discoveries show that orbital filling mediated by ion intercalation can trigger a colossal non-volatile conductivity change in nickelates. The coupling and interaction between two types of charge carriers (i.e., ions and electrons) enable nickelate as an exotic mixed conductor for electronic, biological, and energy applications. In this Perspective, we first summarize the fundamentals and recent progresses in the manipulation of ground states of perovskite nickelates by controlling orbital filling via ion intercalation. Then, we present a comprehensive overview of perovskite nickelate as a unique platform for vast cutting-edge research fields, including neuromorphic computing, bio-electronic interfaces, as well as electrocatalysis applications by taking advantage of such electron-filling-controlled modulation phenomena. Finally, we provide an overview of future perspectives and remaining challenges toward the exploitation and commercialization of quantum nickelates for future multidisciplinary research.