Structural phase transitions, mechanical and electronic properties of ZrSe2 under high pressures via the first-principles calculations

摘要

High-pressure phases of ZrSe2 are predicted using the first-principles calculations combined with particle swarm optimization in the pressure range of 0 - 30 GPa. Three stable phases: the P3m1, C2/m and I4/mmm phases are identified, with the last two phases being predicted for the first time. The pressure-induced phase transition sequences are from the P3m1 phase to the C2/m phase, and then from the C2/m phase to the I4/mmm phase as the pressure increases. The related transition pressures are 3 GPa and 15 GPa, respectively. The thermal, dynamical and mechanical stabilities along with physical properties of these phases are investigated. In addition, the electronic band structures reveal that pressure-induced semiconductor-semimetal-metal transition occurs along with the structural phase transitions. Both the P3m1 and C2/m phases exhibit good catalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction, calling for further experimental studies to verify.

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