Fluorite-type materials in the monolayer limit

Abstract

The 2H, 1T, and their distorted structures are known as prototype structures of $AB_2$ monolayers. Here, we study a puckered structure that is truncated from the (110) surface of fluorite-type materials. 53 fluorite-type materials are investigated based on first-principles approach. The formation energy calculations indicate that seven systems form the puckered structure in the monolayer limit, while other systems form either 1T, 2H, or distorted 1T structures. The puckered structures of PbF$_2$, PRh$_2$, and Ga$_2$Au exhibit negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) in the out-of-plane direction. An analytical model for the NPR is derived. The surface energy calculations predict the appearance of NPR.