Thin-film topological insulator-ferromagnet heterostructures for terahertz detection
An atomically thin topological insulator is investigated theoretically for long-wavelength photodetection when it interacts with a magnetic material. Through the coupling between top and bottom surfaces as well as the exchange interaction with the proximate ferromagnet, the distribution of optically excited carriers exhibits unique patterns that depend sensitively on the frequency of the incoming light. This effect results in the generation of strong nonzero photocurrent, leading potentially to room-temperature detection of far-infrared/THz radiation with the advantage of low noise and fast response. The ease of frequency tuning by an external electrical bias offers an added versatility in the realistic implementation.
- OSTI ID:
- 22283150
- Journal Information:
- Applied Physics Letters, Vol. 104, Issue 6; Other Information: (c) 2014 AIP Publishing LLC; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0003-6951
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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