Y-shape spin-separator for two-dimensional group-IV nanoribbons based on quantum spin hall effect

Abstract

An efficient spin-separator that operates in quantum spin hall phase has been investigated for two-dimensional group-IV materials. A three-terminal Y-shaped device has been simulated via non-equilibrium Green Function to demonstrate the separation of unpolarized current at source terminal into spin-polarized current of opposite polarity at the two drain terminals. Device controls, i.e., tunable buckling and perpendicular magnetic field have been modeled comprehensively to evaluate the device feasibility and performance. It is shown that these controls can preferentially steer current between the two drains to create a differential charge current with complementary spin polarization, thus enabling a convenient regulation of output signal. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.