Proposal of a One-Dimensional Electron Gas in the Steps at the LaAlO3-SrTiO3 Interface

The two-dimensional electron gas at the interface between LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 has become one of the most fascinating and highly debated oxide systems of recent times. Here we propose that a one-dimensional electron gas can be engineered at the step edges of the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface. These predictions are supported by first-principles calculations and electrostatic modeling which elucidate the origin of the one-dimensional electron gas as an electronic reconstruction to compensate a net surface charge in the step edge. The results suggest a novel route to increasing the functional density in these electronic interfaces.