Abstract
We propose a spin transport experiment to measure the low-energy excitations in insulators with spin degrees of freedom, with a focus on detecting ground states that lack magnetic order. A general formalism to compute the spin-current from a metal with a non-equilibrium distribution of spins to an insulator is developed. It is applied to insulating states with and without long range magnetic order, and salient features in the spin-conductance are noted.
Highlights
Observation of fractionalized excitations in insulating spin-systems has been a long-sought goal in physics
We proposed the use of spin currents as a gateway to probe the nature of excitations in magnetic insulators
We showed at that in the zero temperature limit, the threshold and scaling of spin current with voltages may be used effectively to search for spin liquid ground states in magnetic insulators
Summary
Observation of fractionalized excitations in insulating spin-systems has been a long-sought goal in physics. Such quantum spin liquid states, if realized in nature, would be a new quantum phase of matter with exotic properties. Numerical studies on the triangular and kagome lattice Heisenberg models indicate the possibility of spin liquid ground states in certain parameter-regimes. In spite of promising evidence for observation of spin liquids from several experiments, the exact nature of experimentally realized ground states, and in particular, the presence of a spin-gap is still unclear.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: 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.
