Selective equal-spin Andreev reflections induced by Majorana fermions

Area of Science:

• Condensed matter physics
• Quantum mechanics
• Materials science

Background:

• Topological superconductors host exotic quasiparticles like Majorana fermions.
• Understanding electron-baryon interactions is key to novel electronic devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of Majorana fermions in Andreev reflections.
• To explore the potential of topological superconductors for generating spin-polarized currents.
• To establish selective equal spin Andreev reflections (SESARs) as a detection method for Majorana fermions.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical analysis of electron transport in topological superconductors.
• Modeling of Majorana fermion-induced selective equal spin Andreev reflections (SESARs).

Main Results:

• Majorana fermions induce SESARs, where electrons with specific spin polarization are reflected as holes with the same spin polarization.
• Electrons with opposite spin polarization are reflected without spin change.
• The resulting charge current in the lead becomes spin-polarized.

Conclusions:

• Topological superconductors supporting Majorana fermions can create fully spin-polarized currents in paramagnetic leads.
• SESARs provide a novel and effective method for detecting Majorana fermions.