Physics – Condensed Matter – Mesoscale and Nanoscale Physics
Scientific paper
2010-07-13
Phys. Rev. A 83, 023609 (2011)
Physics
Condensed Matter
Mesoscale and Nanoscale Physics
Scientific paper
10.1103/PhysRevA.83.023609
Physical phenomena driven by topological properties, such as the quantum Hall effect, have the appealing feature to be robust with respect to external perturbations. Lately, a new class of materials has emerged manifesting their topological properties at room temperature and without the need of external magnetic fields. These topological insulators are band insulators with large spin-orbit interactions and exhibit the quantum spin-Hall (QSH) effect. Here we investigate the transition between QSH and normal insulating phases under topological deformations of a two-dimensional lattice. We demonstrate that the QSH phase present in the honeycomb lattice looses its robustness as the occupancy of extra lattice sites is allowed. Furthermore, we propose a method for verifying our predictions with fermionic cold atoms in optical lattices. In this context, the spin-orbit interaction is engineered via an appropriate synthetic gauge field.
Bercioux Dario
Goldman Nathan
Urban Daniel F.
No associations
LandOfFree
Topology-induced phase transitions in quantum spin Hall lattices does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Topology-induced phase transitions in quantum spin Hall lattices, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Topology-induced phase transitions in quantum spin Hall lattices will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-350531