Multiple-q states and skyrmion lattice of the triangular-lattice Heisenberg antiferromagnet under magnetic fields

TL;DR

This study investigates the complex magnetic phases, including skyrmion lattices, in a frustrated triangular-lattice Heisenberg antiferromagnet under magnetic fields using mean-field and Monte Carlo methods.

Contribution

It reveals multiple-q states and skyrmion lattice formations in a classical Heisenberg model, highlighting differences from Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya systems.

Findings

Identification of multiple-q states including skyrmion-lattice

Discovery of a phase with coexisting skyrmions and anti-skyrmions

Observation of a domain state with skyrmion and anti-skyrmion lattices

Abstract

Ordering of the frustrated classical Heisenberg model on the triangular-lattice with an incommensurate spiral spin structure is studied under magnetic fields by means of a mean-field analysis and a Monte Carlo simulation. Several types of multiple-q states including the "skyrmion-lattice" state is observed in addition to the standard single-q state. In contrast to the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction driven system, the present model allows both skyrmions and anti-skyrmions, together with a new thermodynamic phase where skyrmion and anti-skyrmion lattices form a domain state.