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Possible intermediate quantum spin liquid phase in α-RuCl3 under high magnetic fields up to 100 T.
Xu-Guang Zhou1, Han Li2,3, Yasuhiro H Matsuda4
1Institute for Solid State Physics, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8581, Japan.
Nature Communications
|September 12, 2023
Summary
Researchers explored the quantum spin liquid (QSL) state in α-RuCl3 using high magnetic fields. They discovered a field-induced QSL phase under specific field orientations, revealing a complex phase diagram.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Quantum Materials Science
- Magnetism
Background:
- The quantum spin liquid (QSL) state is a highly sought-after exotic phase of matter.
- The Kitaev material α-RuCl3 is a promising candidate for realizing QSL physics.
- Understanding field-induced phases in magnetic materials is crucial for quantum technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the existence and properties of a field-induced quantum spin liquid (QSL) phase in α-RuCl3.
- To map the magnetic field-angle phase diagram of α-RuCl3.
- To compare experimental findings with theoretical models.
Main Methods:
- High-field magnetization measurements up to 102 T using pulsed magnets.
- Systematic variation of magnetic field orientation relative to the crystal's c* axis.
- Density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) simulations based on the K-J-Γ model.
Main Results:
- Two distinct quantum phase transitions were observed under an out-of-plane magnetic field at 35 T and 83 T, with an intermediate QSL phase.
- An in-plane magnetic field induced a single transition at 7 T, without an observable QSL phase.
- A comprehensive field-angle phase diagram was constructed, delineating zigzag, paramagnetic, and QSL phases.
- Experimental results were reproduced with high accuracy using DMRG simulations.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the existence of a field-induced quantum spin liquid (QSL) phase in α-RuCl3 under specific magnetic field orientations.
- The orientation of the applied magnetic field plays a critical role in determining the magnetic phases and the emergence of the QSL state.
- Theoretical modeling successfully captures the experimentally observed quantum phase diagram, validating the K-J-Γ model for α-RuCl3.
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