Abstract
We present an ab initio description of the spin Hall effect in metals. Our approach is based on density functional theory in the framework of a fully relativistic Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker method and the solution of a linearized Boltzmann equation including the scattering-in term (vertex corrections). The skew scattering mechanism at substitutional impurities is considered. Spin-orbit coupling in the host as well as at the impurity atom and the influence of spin-flip processes are fully taken into account. A sign change of the spin Hall effect in Cu and Au hosts is obtained as a function of the impurity atom, and even light elements like Li can cause a strong effect. It is shown that the gigantic spin Hall effect in Au can be caused by skew scattering at C and N impurities which are typical contaminations in a vacuum chamber.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 186403 |
Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Volume | 104 |
Issue number | 18 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 7 May 2010 |
Keywords
- SEMICONDUCTORS
- RANDOM ALLOYS
- ELECTRICAL-TRANSPORT PHENOMENA
- QUANTUM-THEORY
- FERROMAGNETICS