Direct observation of topological surface states in the layered kagome lattice with broken time-reversal symmetry

Abstract

Magnetic topological quantum materials display a diverse range of fascinating physical properties which arise from their intrinsic magnetism and the breaking of time-reversal symmetry. However, so far, few examples of intrinsic magnetic topological materials have been confirmed experimentally, which significantly hinder our comprehensive understanding of the abundant physical properties in this system. The kagome lattices, which host diversity of electronic structure signatures such as Dirac nodes, flat bands, and saddle points, provide an alternative and promising platform for in-depth investigations into correlations and band topology. In this article, drawing inspiration from the stacking configuration of MnBi$_2$Te$_4$, we conceive and then synthesize a high-quality single crystal EuTi$_3$Bi$_4$, which is a unique natural heterostructure consisting of both topological kagome layers and magnetic interlayers. We investigate the electronic structure of EuTi$_3$Bi$_4$ and uncover distinct features of anisotropic multiple Van Hove singularitie (VHS) that might prevent Fermi surface nesting, leading to the absence of a charge density wave (CDW). In addition, we identify the topological nontrivial surface states that serve as connections between different saddle bands in the vicinity of the Fermi level. Combined with calculations, we establish that, the effective time-reversal symmetry S=$\theta$$\tau_{1/2}$ play a crucial role in the antiferromagnetic ground state of EuTi$_3$Bi$_4$, which ensures the stability of the topological surface states and gives rise to their intriguing topological nature. Therefore, EuTi$_3$Bi$_4$ offers the rare opportunity to investigate correlated topological states in magnetic kagome materials.