Spin-polarized edge states in silicene-like nanoribbons with non-uniform strain

We studied the edge magnetism of zigzag-edge silicene-like nanoribbons under non-uniform linear strain, with special attention to the intrinsic spin-orbit coupling. Both in-plane and normal magnetization directions were considered in the framework of the Kane-Mele-Hubbard model and the tight-binding method. The results showed that band-splitting and spin-polarized states are induced by the applied non-uniform strain, even when the intrinsic magnetism is zero. Furthermore, different edge magnetizations were found induced by the nonuniform strain. We also found that the Hubbard interaction can boost the strain effect and provide an ideal situation for valley-based transport by inducing valley asymmetry.

Automated summary

We investigated the edge magnetism of zigzag-edge silicene-like nanoribbons under non-uniform linear strain, focusing on the intrinsic spin-orbit coupling. Our findings revealed that band-splitting and spin-polarized states can be induced by applied non-uniform strain, even when intrinsic magnetism is absent. Additionally, different edge magnetizations were observed under the influence of non-uniform strain. Moreover, we discovered that the Hubbard interaction can enhance the strain effect and create an ideal condition for valley-based transport by inducing valley asymmetry.