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Néel spin-orbit torque in antiferromagnetic quantum spin and anomalous Hall insulators

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  • Junyu Tang

    (University of California)

  • Hantao Zhang

    (University of California)

  • Ran Cheng

    (University of California
    University of California
    University of California)

Abstract

Interplay between topological electrons and magnetic ordering enables efficient electrical control of magnetism. We extend the Kane-Mele model to include the exchange coupling to a collinear antiferromagnetic (AFM) order, which allows the system to exhibit the quantum anomalous Hall and quantum spin Hall effects in the absence of a net magnetization. These topological phases support a staggered Edelstein effect through which an applied electric field can generate opposite non-equilibrium spins on the two AFM sublattices, realizing the Néel-type spin-orbit torque (NSOT). Contrary to known NSOTs in AFM metals driven by conduction currents, our NSOT arises from pure adiabatic currents devoid of Joule heating, while being a bulk effect not carried by the edge currents. By virtue of the NSOT, the electric field of a microwave can drive the AFM resonance with a remarkably high efficiency, outpacing the magnetic field-induced AFM resonance by orders of magnitude in terms of power absorption.

Suggested Citation

  • Junyu Tang & Hantao Zhang & Ran Cheng, 2025. "Néel spin-orbit torque in antiferromagnetic quantum spin and anomalous Hall insulators," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-63171-1
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63171-1
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