Structural and electronic properties of graphene-based junctions for spin-filtering: The graphene/Al/Ni(1 1 1) intercalation-like system

The atomic and electronic structure of the graphene/Al/Ni(1 1 1) system is studied via combination of LEED and spectroscopic methods (X-ray absorption, core-level and valence-band photoelectron spectroscopy), respectively. These data demonstrating the (2 × 2) overstructure and the decoupling of the graphene layer from the substrate (with respect to graphene/Ni(1 1 1)) are in very good agreement with DFT calculations supporting nearly free-standing state of graphene in this system (with small n-doping). The perspectives of application of Al-based intercalation-like systems are discussed.

► We successfully prepare and study the graphene/Al/Ni(1 1 1) intercalation-like system. ► The properties of a free-standing-like graphene layer are restored. ► Graphene is slightly n-doped in this system.