Spin Seebeck effect in quantum dot side-coupled to topological superconductor

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Quantum Computing
• Materials Science

Background:

• Quantum dots exhibit unique electronic properties.
• Topological superconductors host exotic Majorana zero-energy modes.
• Thermoelectric transport is crucial for energy harvesting and spintronics.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate spin-resolved thermoelectric transport properties.
• Understand the influence of Kondo correlations, ferromagnetic leads, and Majorana modes.
• Identify potential signatures of Majorana fermions.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical study using the numerical renormalization group method.
• Analysis within the linear response regime.
• Modeling a quantum dot coupled to ferromagnetic leads and a topological superconductor wire.

Main Results:

• Transport characteristics depend on Kondo correlations, exchange fields, and coupling to Majorana modes.
• Seebeck and spin Seebeck coefficients show enhancement at specific temperatures.
• Additional sign changes in thermopower indicate the presence of Majorana zero-energy modes.

Conclusions:

• The interplay of various factors dictates thermoelectric properties.
• Thermoelectric measurements can serve as fingerprints for Majorana fermions.
• Findings contribute to the understanding of topological quantum phenomena.