Computational search for itinerant n -type and p -type magnetic semiconductors: Arsenopyrites as bipolar magnetic semiconductors

Abstract

We report a computational search for three-dimensional bulk ferromagnetic semiconductors based on itinerant Stoner physics. Stoner-based ferromagnetic semiconductors require an unusual combination of high band edge density of states and moderate transport effective mass. Nonetheless, several potential materials are found. We identify arsenopyrites, exemplified by FeAsS, as materials that, with suitable doping, exhibit ferromagnetic semiconducting behavior for both $n$- and $p$-type dopants. The existence of a material that becomes ferromagnetic for both $p$ and $n$ types may enable device concepts, for example, ferromagnetic $p\ensuremath{-}n$ junction devices.