Low-energy theory for strained graphene: an approach up to second-order in the strain tensor

Abstract

An analytical study of low-energy electronic excited states in uniformly strained graphene is carried out up to second-order in the strain tensor. We report a new effective Dirac Hamiltonian with an anisotropic Fermi velocity tensor, which reveals the graphene trigonal symmetry being absent in first-order low-energy theories. In particular, we demonstrate the dependence of the Dirac-cone elliptical deformation on the stretching direction with respect to graphene lattice orientation. We further analytically calculate the optical conductivity tensor of strained graphene and its transmittance for a linearly polarized light with normal incidence. Finally, the obtained analytical expression of the Dirac point shift allows a better determination and understanding of pseudomagnetic fields induced by nonuniform strains.