Topological Materials and Solid-State Chemistry—Finding and Characterizing New Topological Materials

Abstract

In this chapter, we will start by introducing some basic concepts of solid-state chemistry and how they can help us identify new topological materials. We give a short overview of common crystal growth methods and the most significant characterization techniques available to identify topological properties. Finally, we summarize this knowledge in a step-by-step procedure that will guide us from the idea to a real compound. The aim of this chapter is to give physics students a guide for implementing simple chemical principles in their search for new topological materials, as well as giving a basic introduction to the steps necessary to experimentally verify the electronic structure of a material.