Abstract

The square Bi layers in $A$MnBi$_2$ ($A =$ Sr, Ca) host Dirac fermions which coexist with antiferromagnetic order on the Mn sublattice below $T_\mathrm{N} = 290\,$K (Sr) and $270\,$K (Ca). We have measured the spin-wave dispersion in these materials by triple-axis neutron spectroscopy. The spectra show pronounced spin gaps of 10.2(2)$\,$meV (Sr) and 8.3(8)$\,$meV (Ca) and extend to a maximum energy transfer of 61 - 63$\,$meV. The observed spectra can be accurately reproduced by linear spin-wave theory from an Heisenberg effective spin Hamiltonian. Detailed global fits of the full magnon dispersion are used to determine the in-plane and inter-layer exchange parameters as well as on the magnetocrystalline anisotropy constant. To within experimental error we find no evidence that the magnetic dynamics are influenced by the Dirac fermions.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

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 call