Project Grant 2211696

This $234,696 National Science Foundation Project Grant, funded through the Engineering program (CFDA 47.041), will support research into cross-plane heat conduction in two-dimensional materials under large compressive strain. Over a two-year period from June 2022 to May 2025, researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno will conduct experimental and computational studies of heat transfer across layers in three material systems - pristine MoS2, twisted MoS2, and graphite - under high pressures simulated using a diamond anvil cell. The research aims to further understanding of how interlayer bonding strength impacts phonon scattering and thermal conductivity across layers. Insights gained could enable parallel tuning of thermal and other properties in 2D materials for applications requiring improved thermal stability and performance. Broader impacts include opportunities for underrepresented groups to gain research training through involvement in the project.