Optical Imaging of Magnetic Quantum Phase Transitions in 2D Materials
Abstract
The emergence of two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials with highly tunable physical properties has opened a new playground for exploring outstanding problems in magnetism and strong correlation physics (such as superconductivity). In particular, a wide range of magnetic quantum phase transitions with enhanced quantum critical fluctuations becomes possible to be explored, examined, and even controlled. In contrast to the familiar case of a classical phase transition, like melting of ice that is driven by varying the sample’s temperature, a quantum phase transition is driven by varying parameters other than temperature, like carrier doping density, magnetic field or pressure. Quantum phase transitions and their influences on the physical properties of quantum materials become increasingly important at low temperature due to their quantum mechanical origin. In this project, we develop a unique low-temperature magneto-optical imaging microscope to directly image the magnetic quantum phase transitions and the critical spin dynamics in 2D quantum materials. Valuable information on the temporal and spatial correlations of the sample magnetization will be obtained, which are crucial for understanding the magnetic quantum phase transitions and a wide range of strongly correlated phenomena. The research has potential impacts on DoD missions in areas ranging from materials under extreme conditions to quantum materials and quantum information science.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010219
Entities
People
- Kin Fai Mak
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Cornell University
- United States Air Force