Advances in electrical contacts to single crystals of emerging materials for transport measurements

Abstract

Transport measurements that probe electrical resistivity of a material under varying external stimuli, such as temperature, magnetic field, optical illumination, and gate voltage, are among the most important experimental techniques in condensed matter physics. These measurements provide critical insights into the fundamental electronic properties of materials. In recent years, they have facilitated the discovery and exploration of intriguing physical phenomena (e.g., superconductivity and quantum oscillations) and unique device functionalities (e.g., photoresponse and electrostatic gating effects) in various emerging materials, particularly in the form of single crystals. However, unlike large-scale wafers or thin films, newly synthesized single crystals often pose substantial challenges in establishing reliable electrical contacts due to their irregular geometries, limited dimensions, inherent structural characteristics, and potential susceptibility to degradation. In this review, we highlight recent technological advancements in the fabrication of high-quality, lithographically defined multi-terminal electrodes on both exfoliable and non-exfoliable single crystals for transport measurements. Our work provides a practical guide for researchers seeking to select appropriate contact-fabrication strategies tailored to unique characteristics of emerging crystals.