Scattering of topological kink-antikink states in bilayer graphene structures

Gapped bilayer graphene can support the presence of intragap states due to kink gate potentials applied to the graphene layers. Electrons in these states display valley-momentum locking, which makes them attractive for topological valleytronics. Here, we show that kink-antikink local potentials enable modulated scattering of topological currents. We find that the kink-antikink coupling leads to anomalous steps in the junction conductance. Further, when the constriction detaches from the propagating modes, forming a loop, the conductance reveals the system energy spectrum. Remarkably, these kink-antikink devices can also work as valley filters with tiny magnetic fields by tuning a central gate.

Automated summary

Research shows that local kink-antikink potentials applied to gapped bilayer graphene can modulate scattering of topological currents, resulting in anomalous steps in junction conductance, and forming a loop can reveal the system's energy spectrum. Additionally, these kink-antikink devices can function as valley filters with tiny magnetic fields by tuning a central gate.