Slow dynamics of disordered zigzag chain molecules in layered LiVS2 under electron irradiation

Electronic instabilities in transition metal compounds often spontaneously form orbital molecules, which consist of orbital-coupled ions at low temperature. Recent local structural studies utilizing the pair distribution function revealed that preformed molecules appear disordered even high-temperature paramagnetic phase. However, it is unclear whether are dynamic or static. Here, we provide clear experimental evidence slow dynamics realized phase LiVS2, exhibits vanadium trimerization upon cooling below 314 K. Unexpectedly, as a zigzag chain fluctuate both time and space under electron irradiation. Our findings should advance on soft matter physics an inorganic material due to molecules.