Topological Quantum Well States in Pb/Sb Thin-Film Heterostructures

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Quantum Phenomena

Background:

• Composite topological heterostructures enable electronic tuning of protected states.
• Topological materials paired with superconductors like lead (Pb) can form topological superconducting phases with Majorana quasiparticles.
• The emergence of bulk-like spin-polarized states in such heterostructures is crucial for applications but often overlooked.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the emergence of bulk-like spin-polarized topological quantum well states in lead (Pb) films grown on the topological semimetal antimony (Sb).
• To explore topological coupling effects for emergent physics and advanced spintronic device architectures.

Main Methods:

• High-resolution photoemission spectroscopy.
• First-principles calculations.

Main Results:

• Observed bulk-like spin-polarized topological quantum well states with long coherence lengths in Pb films on Sb.
• Demonstrated the potential of Pb/Sb heterostructures as topological superconductor candidates.

Conclusions:

• The study establishes Pb/Sb heterostructures as promising topological superconductor candidates.
• Advances the understanding of topological coupling effects for emergent physics.
• Provides insights for designing advanced spintronic device architectures.