search for the precise location of an Fe atom in a monolayer
Phys. Rev. B 114, 225401 – Published 5 October, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/w8gs-dnrm
Abstract
In this study, using density functional theory, we investigate the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of Fe adatom, interstitial, and substitutional configurations in monolayer . We find that under Te-poor conditions, Fe preferentially occupies topographically distinct tetrahedral interstitial sites, donating electrons to the host and stabilizing local magnetic moments, whereas under Te-rich conditions the preferred defect configuration switches to substitutional. Simulated scanning tunneling microscopy images of the interstitial defects reproduce key features found in experiment, suggesting the coexistence of multiple Fe-related defect configurations. The spin-orbit-coupled electronic properties with the computed Hubbard parameter reveal metallic behavior for the interstitial configuration, while the substitutional configuration largely retains the semimetallic electronic structure of pristine . The emergence of localized Fe () states near the Fermi level, together with calculated work-function shifts and the local potential profile, indicates the -type character, consistent with experimental observations. These findings provide a microscopic understanding of Fe-induced defect formation and the resulting electronic and magnetic properties of , guiding further experimental investigations and the development of defect-engineered two-dimensional quantum materials for future spintronic and magnetic-device applications.