Abstract
Intensive studies of the interplay between spin-orbit coupling (SOC) and electronic correlations in transition metal compounds have recently been undertaken. In particular, $j_{\rm eff}$ = 1/2 bands on a honeycomb lattice provide a pathway to realize Kitaev's exactly solvable spin model. However, since current wisdom requires strong atomic SOC to make $j_{\rm eff}=1/2$ bands, studies have been limited to iridium oxides. Contrary to this expectation, we demonstrate how Kitaev interactions arise in 4$d$-orbital honeycomb $\alpha$-RuCl$_3$, despite having significantly weaker SOC than the iridium oxides, via assistance from electron correlations. A strong coupling spin model for these correlation-assisted $j_{\rm eff}$ = 1/2 bands is derived, in which large antiferromagnetic Kitaev interactions emerge along with ferromagnetic Heisenberg interactions. Our analyses suggest that the ground state is a zigzag-ordered phase lying close to the antiferromagnetic Kitaev spin liquid. Experimental implications for angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy, neutron scattering, and optical conductivities are discussed.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.