Surface state charge dynamics of a high-mobility three dimensional topological insulator

TL;DR

This study uses advanced magneto-optical time-domain spectroscopy to precisely analyze the surface state charge dynamics of strained HgTe, a 3D topological insulator, near the Fermi level, aiding future topological phenomena research.

Contribution

It introduces a novel spectroscopic technique that enhances surface state signal detection in topological insulators, enabling detailed dispersion analysis close to the Fermi level.

Findings

Precise surface state dispersion information within <1 meV of Fermi level

Technique amplifies surface state signals effectively

Suitable for studying topological magnetoelectric effects

Abstract

We present a magneto-optical study of the three-dimensional topological insulator, strained HgTe using a technique which capitalizes on advantages of time-domain spectroscopy to amplify the signal from the surface states. This measurement delivers valuable and precise information regarding the surface state dispersion within <1 meV of the Fermi level. The technique is highly suitable for the pursuit of the topological magnetoelectric effect and axion electrodynamics.