Atomic carbon chains as spin-transmitters: an \textit{Ab initio} transport study
Abstract
An atomic carbon chain joining two graphene flakes was recently realized in a ground-breaking experiment by Jin {\it et al.}, Phys. Rev. Lett. {\bf 102}, 205501 (2009). We present {\it ab initio} results for the electron transport properties of such chains and demonstrate complete spin-polarization of the transmission in large energy ranges. The effect is due to the spin-polarized zig-zag edge terminating each graphene flake causing a spin-splitting of the graphene bands, and the chain states. Transmission occurs when the graphene -states resonate with similar states in the strongly hybridized edges and chain. This effect should in general hold for any -conjugated molecules bridging the zig-zag edges of graphene electrodes. The polarization of the transmission can be controlled by chemically or mechanically modifying the molecule, or by applying an electrical gate.
Cite
@article{arxiv.0909.1756,
title = {Atomic carbon chains as spin-transmitters: an \textit{Ab initio} transport study},
author = {Joachim A. Fuerst and Mads Brandbyge and Antti-Pekka Jauho},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:0909.1756},
year = {2015}
}