A new transition metal trichalcogenide TaNbSe6 with high yield strength

Abstract Quasi-one-dimensional transition metal trichalcogenides (TMTs) feature many valuable properties that make them promising for future downscaled and flexible electronics. However, research efforts on new TMT family members and the mechanical properties of these materials remain insufficient. In this paper, the tensile strength of a new conductive ternary TMT, TaNbSe6, is studied by in situ tensile testing using transmission electron microscopy. Our results reveal that the TaNbSe6 nanobelts have a Young's modulus of 64.8 GPa and yield strength of 9.2 GPa. This outstanding tensile strength results from the novel structure of TaNbSe6, in which the Ta and Nb double prisms appear alternately along the c axis. Our work opens a door for exploring other TMTs and expanding mechanical properties for future applications.