Spin Andreev-like reflection in metal-Mott insulator heterostructures.
Using the time-dependent density-matrix renormalization group (tDMRG), we study the time evolution of electron wave packets in one-dimensional (1D) metal-superconductor heterostructures. The results show Andreev reflection at the interface, as expected. By combining these results with the well-known single-spin-species electron-hole transformation in the Hubbard model, we predict an analogous spin Andreev reflection in metal-Mott insulator heterostructures. This effect is numerically confirmed using 1D tDMRG, but it is expected to also be present in higher dimensions, as well as in more general Hamiltonians. We present an intuitive picture of the spin reflection, analogous to that of Andreev reflection at metal-superconductor interfaces. This allows us to discuss a novel antiferromagnetic proximity effect. Possible experimental realizations are discussed.
Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, USA.
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Al-Hassanieh
Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, USA and Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 2Y5, Canada.
Julián
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Rincón
Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, USA and Computer Science & Mathematics Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, USA.
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G
Alvarez
Materials Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, USA and Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, USA.
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Dagotto