A metallic p-wave magnet with commensurate spin helix

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Spintronics

Background:

• Antiferromagnetic materials exhibit unique electronic phenomena due to spin-split electronic structures, despite minimal net magnetization.
• P-wave spin splitting, the simplest odd-parity spin splitting, was theoretically proposed to arise from electron interactions or a distinct mechanism termed p-wave magnetism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally realize a metallic p-wave magnet.
• To investigate the underlying mechanism of odd-parity spin splitting in conduction electrons.
• To explore the potential for novel electronic and spintronic applications.

Main Methods:

• X-ray scattering experiments to determine the antiferromagnetic texture.
• Characterization of electronic conductivity anisotropy.
• Theoretical modeling of electronic structure and anomalous Hall effect.

Main Results:

• Experimental realization of a metallic p-wave magnet with a coplanar spin helix texture.
• Observed odd-parity spin splitting in delocalized conduction electrons due to coupling with localized magnetic moments.
• Demonstrated a giant anomalous Hall effect (>600 S cm⁻¹) in the p-wave magnet, exceeding typical antiferromagnetic values.

Conclusions:

• Metallic p-wave magnets provide a viable platform for realizing spin-split electronic bands without strong electron correlations.
• The observed giant anomalous Hall effect highlights the potential of p-wave magnetism for spintronic applications.
• This work opens avenues for exploring novel quantum phenomena in magnets, superconductors, and advanced electronic devices.