Surprising lack of magnetism in the conductance channels of Pt atomic chains

TL;DR

This study uses shot noise measurements to investigate the magnetic properties of platinum atomic chains, revealing an unexpected non-magnetic ground state despite theoretical predictions of spin polarization.

Contribution

The paper provides experimental evidence that contradicts prior theoretical predictions of magnetism in Pt atomic chains, using shot noise as a novel probe.

Findings

Pt atomic chains are non-magnetic according to shot noise data.

Contradicts previous models predicting spin polarization in Pt chains.

Demonstrates shot noise as an effective tool for probing atomic-scale magnetism.

Abstract

Pt is known to show spontaneous formation of chains of metal atoms upon breaking a metallic contact. From model calculations these have been predicted to be spin polarized, which is reasonable in view of the Stoner enhanced susceptibility of bulk Pt and the increased density of states due to the reduced dimensionality. Here, we demonstrate that shot noise reveals information on the magnetic state of Pt atomic chains. Against all predictions, we find clear evidence for a non-magnetic ground state for the conductance channels of Pt atomic chains.