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arXiv · 1106.6010

Highly spin-polarized conducting state at the interface between non-magnetic band insulators: LaAlO3/FeS2 (001)

J. D. Burton·E. Y. Tsymbal
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Abstract

First-principles density functional calculations demonstrate that a spin-polarized two-dimensional conducting state can be realized at the interface between two non-magnetic band insulators. The (001) surface of the diamagnetic insulator FeS2 (pyrite) supports a localized surface state deriving from Fe d-orbitals near the conduction band minimum. The deposition of a few unit cells of the polar perovskite oxide LaAlO3 leads to electron transfer into these surface bands, thereby creating a conducting interface. The occupation of these narrow bands leads to an exchange splitting between the spin sub-bands, yielding a highly spin-polarized conducting state distinct from the rest of the non-magnetic, insulating bulk. Such an interface presents intriguing possibilities for spintronics applications.

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J. D. Burton, E. Y. Tsymbal. 2011-06-29. Highly spin-polarized conducting state at the interface between non-magnetic band insulators: LaAlO3/FeS2 (001). https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.107.166601

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