Epitaxial refractory-metal buer layers with a chemical gradient for   adjustable lattice parameter and controlled chemical interface
  We have developed and characterized the structure and composition of nanometers-thick solid-solution epitaxial layers of (V,Nb) on sapphire (1120), displaying a continuous lateral gradient of composition from one to another pure element. Further covered with an ultrathin pseudomorphic layer of W, these provide a template for the fast combinatorial investigation of any growth or physical property depending of strain. 
Olivier Fruchart (NEEL), Anthony Rousseau (NEEL), Didier Schmaus   (INSP), A. L'Hoir (INSP), Richard Haettel (NEEL), L. Orte...
cond-mat.mtrl-sci