Spin-polarized edge states in silicene-like nanoribbons with non-uniform strain

Abstract

We studied the edge magnetism of zigzag-edge silicene-like nanoribbons under non-uniform linear strain, with special attention to the intrinsic spin–orbit coupling. Both in-plane and normal magnetization directions were considered in the framework of the Kane–Mele–Hubbard model and the tight-binding method. The results showed that band-splitting and spin-polarized states are induced by the applied non-uniform strain, even when the intrinsic magnetism is zero. Furthermore, different edge magnetizations were found induced by the non-uniform strain. We also found that the Hubbard interaction can boost the strain effect and provide an ideal situation for valley-based transport by inducing valley asymmetry. • We studied the zigzag-edge silicene-like nanoribbons under non-uniform strain. • Band-splitting and spin-polarized states are induced by the non-uniform strain. • Strain induces spin-polarize state, even when the intrinsic magnetism is zero. • The Hubbard interaction can boost the strain effect in valley-based transport.