Topological insulators-based magnetic heterostructures

• Main Authors: Qi Yao, Yuchen Ji, Peng Chen, Qing-Lin He, Xufeng Kou
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2021-01-01
• Series: Advances in Physics: X
• Subjects: topological insulators; magnetic heterostructures; spin-orbit coupling; structural engineering; quantum anomalous hall effect; spin-orbit torque
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/23746149.2020.1870560

The combination of magnetism and topology in magnetic topological insulators (MTIs) has led to unprecedented advancements of time reversal symmetry-breaking topological quantum physics in the past decade. Compared with the uniform films, the MTI heterostructures provide a better framework to manipulate the spin-orbit coupling and magnetic/spin properties. In this review, we summarize the fundamental mechanisms related to the physical orders host in (Bi,Sb)2(Te,Se)3-based hybrid systems. Besides, we provide an assessment on the general strategies to enhance the magnetic coupling and spin-orbit torque strength through different structural engineering approaches and effective interfacial interactions. Finally, we offer an outlook of MTI heterostructures-based spintronics applications, particularly in view of their feasibility to achieve room-temperature operation.