Omnidirectional spin-to-charge conversion in graphene/NbSe2 van der Waals heterostructures

The conversion of spin currents polarized in different directions into charge currents is a keystone for novel spintronic devices. Van der Waals heterostructures with tailored symmetry are a very appealing platform for such a goal. Here, by performing nonlocal spin precession experiments, we demonstrate the spin-to-charge conversion (SCC) of spins oriented in all three directions (x, y, and z). By analyzing the magnitude and temperature dependence of the signal in different configurations, we argue that the different SCC components measured are likely due to spin-orbit proximity and broken symmetry at the twisted graphene/NbSe2 interface. Such efficient omnidirectional SCC opens the door to the use of new architectures in spintronic devices, from spin-orbit torques that can switch any magnetization to the magnetic state readout of magnetic elements pointing in any direction.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the conversion of spin currents polarized in different directions into charge currents in van der Waals heterostructures with tailored symmetry. The different components of spin-to-charge conversion observed are likely due to spin-orbit proximity and broken symmetry at the twisted graphene/NbSe2 interface. This finding opens up possibilities for the use of new architectures in spintronic devices.