Jen's image chosen for Royal Microscopy Society's 2018 Calendar

This image shows crystals of the two-dimensional material molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a new material that is only a few atoms thick. Materials scientists make MoS2 by heating up powders to cause a chemical reaction that forms distinct triangle-shaped crystals. Here, we see many of these triangular crystals have merged together to create a stunning scene of MoS2 “stars”. While perhaps not as bright as real stars, these crystals can be used to emit light, too. That’s why scientists are studying them for a variety of future electronic and optoelectronic applications to make the world a little brighter.

Equipment Used: Hitachi 8030 SEM.

Check out Jen's image "Twinkle, twinkle, little MoS2" below, in the Royal Microscopy Society's 2018 Calendar, and as a finalist for the MRS Science as Art competition!