arXiv subjects

Falk Pabst

Publications and source records attributed to Falk Pabst.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Disentangling bulk and surface states in the electronic structure of PtBi$_2$(0001)

Recent reports of surface-localized topological superconductivity in trigonal PtBi$_2$ highlight the importance of understanding its surface electronic structure. We investigate the bulk and surface band structure of PtBi$_2$ using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and first-principles calculations. Through photon-energy- and polarization-dependent measurements, we disentangle bulk dispersions from surface states on the two distinct surface terminations of PtBi$_2$(0001). For both terminations, we assign several different surface states and find good agreement between experiment and calculations. Based on our calculations, we analyze the orbital composition in the surface and bulk bands and compare the results to polarization-dependent ARPES measurements. Together, our results provide a coherent picture of the surface electronic structure of PtBi$_2$ across both surface terminations.

cond-mat.str-el↗

arXiv2026

Fermiology and spin polarization of topological surface states in PtBi$_2$

Layered PtBi$_2$ is a candidate for topological superconductivity arising in Fermi-arc surface states. Using spin- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, we demonstrate that the Fermi arcs in PtBi$_2$ are singly degenerate and spin-polarized, which establishes their nontrivial topology and constitutes a necessary condition for topological superconductivity. We further uncover a pronounced surface-termination dependence of the Fermi-arc dispersion, yielding either nearly flat or approximately linear bands in agreement with first-principles calculations. Together, the observed spin polarization and termination-dependent bandwidth of the Fermi-arc surface states identify key ingredients underlying the potential emergence of topological superconductivity in PtBi$_2$.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2025

Stacking disorder in novel ABAC-stacked brochantite, Cu$_4$SO$_4$(OH)$_6$

In geometrically frustrated magnetic systems, weak interactions or slight changes to the structure can tip the delicate balance of exchange interactions, sending the system into a different ground state. Brochantite, Cu$_4$SO$_4$(OH)$_6$, has a copper sublattice composed of distorted triangles, making it a likely host for frustrated magnetism, but exhibits stacking disorder. The lack of synthetic single crystals has limited research on the magnetism in brochantite to powders and natural mineral crystals. We grew crystals which we find to be a new polytype with a tendency toward ABAC stacking and some anion disorder, alongside the expected stacking disorder. Comparison to previous results on natural mineral specimens suggests that cation disorder is more deleterious to the magnetism than anion and stacking disorder. Our specific heat data suggest a double transition on cooling into the magnetically ordered state.

cond-mat.str-el↗

arXiv2024

Roadmap on Quantum Magnetic Materials

Fundamental research on two-dimensional (2D) magnetic systems based on van der Waals materials has been gaining traction rapidly since their recent discovery. With the increase of recent knowledge, it has become clear that such materials have also a strong potential for applications in devices that combine magnetism with electronics, optics, and nanomechanics. Nonetheless, many challenges still lay ahead. Several fundamental aspects of 2D magnetic materials are still unknown or poorly understood, such as their often-complicated electronic structure, optical properties, and magnetization dynamics, and their magnon spectrum. To elucidate their properties and facilitate integration in devices, advanced characterization techniques and theoretical frameworks need to be developed or adapted. Moreover, developing synthesis methods which increase critical temperatures and achieve large-scale, high-quality homogeneous thin films is crucial before these materials can be used for real-world applications. Therefore, the field of 2D magnetic materials provides many challenges and opportunities for the discovery and exploration of new phenomena, as well as the development of new applications. This Roadmap presents the background, challenges, and potential research directions for various relevant topics in the field on the fundamentals, synthesis, characterization, and applications. We hope that this work can provide a strong starting point for young researchers in the field and provide a general overview of the key challenges for more experienced researchers.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗