Anisotropic propagation of the ultrafast Mott insulator-to-metal phase transition in single crystal of V2O3 with tailored shape

This proposal aims at deepening our understanding of strain wave propagation during ultrafast photo-induced phase transitions in volume changing materials. We will study single crystals with shape tailored using using Focused Ion Beam technology. We will employ ultrafast light pulses and X-ray diffraction to analyze the effects of domains orientation on photo-induced IMT efficiency and time scale in single crystal of V2O3. Monoclinic distorsion and domains structure in the low symmetry insulating phase will also be studied carefully as a fonction of temperature. Results will help to understand better structural mechanism underlying IMT phase transition in Mott materials, and help to design new materials optimized for ultrafast and efficient switching.