X-type stacking in cross-chain antiferromagnets
Shui-Sen Zhang, Zi-An Wang, Bo Li, Yuanyuan Jiang, Shu‐Hui Zhang, Rui‐Chun Xiao, Lan-Xin Liu, Xuan Luo, W. J. Lu, Mingliang Tian, Yuping Sun, Evgeny Y. Tsymbal, Haifeng Du, Ding‐Fu Shao
Abstract
Physical phenomena in condensed matter normally arise from the collective effect of all atoms, while selectively addressing a lone atomic sublattice by external stimulus is elusive. The latter functionality may, however, benefit various applications, as the responses may differ when the external stimulus affects only a specific sublattice rather than the entire solid. Here, we introduce cross-chain antiferromagnets where the stacking of two magnetic sublattices forms a pattern of intersecting atomic chains, allowing for sublattice selectivity. We dub this antiferromagnetic (AFM) stacking X-type and demonstrate that it exhibits unique spin-dependent transport properties not present in conventional magnets. Through high-throughput analyses and computations, we unveil three prototypes of X-type AFM stacking and identify 15 X-type AFM candidates. Using β -Fe 2 PO 5 as a representative X-type antiferromagnet, we predict sublattice-selective spin-polarized transport driven by the X-type stacking where one magnetic sublattice conducts, while the other does not. Consequently, a spin torque can be exerted solely on a single sublattice, leading to unconventional ultrafast dynamics of the Néel vector capable of deterministic switching of the AFM domains. Our work uncovers a previously overlooked type of magnetic moment stacking and reveals sublattice-selective physical properties promising for high-performance spintronic applications.