Abstract
We present a theoretical realization of quantum spin and quantum valley Hall effects in silicene. We show that combination of an electric field and intrinsic spin-orbit interaction leads to quantum phase transitions at the charge neutrality point. This phase transition from a two dimensional topological insulator to a trivial insulating state is accompanied by a quenching of the quantum spin Hall effect and the onset of a quantum valley Hall effect, providing a tool to experimentally tune the topological state of silicene. In contrast to graphene and other conventional topological insulators, the proposed effects in silicene are accessible to experiments.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 162412 |
Journal | Applied Physics Letters |
Volume | 102 |
Issue number | 16 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 26 2013 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physics and Astronomy (miscellaneous)