Wave-packet rectification in nonlinear electronic systems: A tunable Aharonov-Bohm diode

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that a nonlinear ring-shaped lattice can act as a tunable electronic diode for wave-packets, utilizing the Aharonov-Bohm effect to achieve rectification through magnetic flux control.

Contribution

It introduces a novel wave diode design based on a nonlinear ring with magnetic flux tuning, differing from traditional asymmetry-based rectification methods.

Findings

Rectification achieved via magnetic flux tuning.

Aharonov-Bohm effect enables diode operation.

Numerical simulations confirm tunable rectification.

Abstract

Rectification of electron wave-packets propagating along a quasi-one dimensional chain is commonly achieved via the simultaneous action of nonlinearity and longitudinal asymmetry, both confined to a limited portion of the chain termed wave diode. However, it is conceivable that, in the presence of an external magnetic field, spatial asymmetry perpendicular to the direction of propagation suffices to ensure rectification. This is the case of a nonlinear ring-shaped lattice with different upper and lower halves (diode), which is attached to two elastic chains (leads). The resulting device is mirror symmetric with respect to the ring vertical axis, but mirror asymmetric with respect to the chain direction. Wave propagation along the two diode paths can be modeled for simplicity by a discrete Schr\"odinger equation with cubic nonlinearities. Numerical simulations demonstrate that, thanks to the Aharonov-Bohm effect, such a diode can be operated by tuning the magnetic flux across the ring.