Néel spin-orbit torque in antiferromagnetic quantum spin and anomalous Hall insulators

Junyu Tang, Hantao Zhang and Ran Cheng ()
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Junyu Tang: University of California
Hantao Zhang: University of California
Ran Cheng: University of California

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Interplay between topological electrons and magnetic ordering enables efficient electrical control of magnetism. We extend the Kane-Mele model to include the exchange coupling to a collinear antiferromagnetic (AFM) order, which allows the system to exhibit the quantum anomalous Hall and quantum spin Hall effects in the absence of a net magnetization. These topological phases support a staggered Edelstein effect through which an applied electric field can generate opposite non-equilibrium spins on the two AFM sublattices, realizing the Néel-type spin-orbit torque (NSOT). Contrary to known NSOTs in AFM metals driven by conduction currents, our NSOT arises from pure adiabatic currents devoid of Joule heating, while being a bulk effect not carried by the edge currents. By virtue of the NSOT, the electric field of a microwave can drive the AFM resonance with a remarkably high efficiency, outpacing the magnetic field-induced AFM resonance by orders of magnitude in terms of power absorption.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63171-1

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