One-dimensional moiré physics and chemistry in heterostrained bilayer graphene

Moiré physics in bilayer graphene has rapidly emerged as a promising platform to investigate correlated electronic phases. However, the formation of interlayer moiré patterns has thus far been restricted to the introduction of twist angles. Here, using classical potentials and first-principles calculations, we propose heterostrained bilayer graphene as a novel platform to access twist-angle-free moiré physics. First, we demonstrate that heterostrain of appropriate strength can lead to the formation of flat bands in bilayer graphene. Next, we show that the heterostrain-driven lattice relaxation leads to a spatially modulated reactivity towards hydrogenation, establishing the basis for moiré-driven chemistry. Our results can be readily generalized to other layered materials such as transition metal dichalcogenides.