Interface structure, band alignment and built-in potentials at LaFeO$_3$/$\textit{n}$-SrTiO$_3$ heterojunctions

Abstract

Interface structure at polar/non-polar interfaces has been shown to be a key factor in controlling emergent behavior in oxide heterostructures, including the LaFeO$_3$/$\textit{n}$-SrTiO$_3$ system. We demonstrate via high energy resolution x-ray photoemission that epitaxial LaFeO$_3$/$\textit{n}$-SrTiO$_3$ (001) heterojunctions engineered to have opposite interface polarities exhibit very similar band offsets and potential gradients within the LaFeO$_3$ films. However, differences in the potential gradient within the SrTiO$_3$ layer depending on polarity may promote hole diffusion into LaFeO$_3$ for applications in photocatalysis.