Development of Magnetometry Detecting Spin Textures in Topological Materials
Abstract
Development of Magnetometry Detecting Spin Textures in Topological MaterialsTechnical Point of Contact: Dr. Brian R. Bennett, Office of Naval Research, brian.r.bennett@navy.milIn this DURIP proposal, we request funding for the equipment to develop a novel magnetometer to mechanically measure the shear torque of helical spin texture in topological materials. The equipment will consist of a superconducting gradient magnet, an ultrasensitive capacitance bridge, a piezo-based rotator, and multichannel AC Resistance Bridge and current/nanovoltmeter units. Together with the dilution refrigerator in the PI~s lab, the new magnetometer will become the first scientific instrument directly measuring helical spin textures. This novel experimental system willyield tremendous knowledge for building future electronic and magnetic devices based on topological materials. Helical spin texture is the characteristic property of topological materials. The challenge is resolving it. The common-sense approach is to probe individual spin using spinbased photoemission, in which the energy resolution is really limited. Our solution is measuring the net work of spins. We propose to resolve the spin helicity by detecting the shear torque of all the spins under an external magnetic field gradient. A number of innovative works enables by this instruments: (a). Mechanical detection of the helical spin textures in chiral magnets; (b). Uncovering the helical spin textures in current-biased topological insulators; and (c). Mapping the helical spin textures in topological Kondo insulators. The development of this new mechanical detection technique of helical spins will open a door for condensed matter physics. The helical spin texture comes from the spinmomentum- locking and is a new way to test the topological nature of the topologicalmaterials. The proposed research is related to the Office of Naval Research~s mission to understand the novel electrical and magnetic properties in electromagnetic materials, in particular in new correlated topological materials. This research also dovetails synergistically with the PI~s research supported by Office of Naval Research YIP award, which focuses on the electronic state of correlated topological materials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 05, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141712357
Entities
People
- Lu Li
Organizations
- Board of Regents of the University of Michigan
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy