Large modulation of the Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations by the Rashba interaction at the LaAlO$_{3}$/SrTiO$_{3}$ interface

TL;DR

This study reveals how the Rashba spin-orbit interaction significantly modulates Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations at LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces, influenced by orbital contributions and carrier density changes.

Contribution

It demonstrates the impact of Rashba interaction on quantum oscillations and highlights the role of specific orbitals and carrier density in these phenomena.

Findings

Rashba spin-orbit interaction strongly modulates oscillations

Heavy d_{xz}/d_{yz} orbitals dominate transport

Oscillation behavior evolves with carrier density

Abstract

We investigate the 2-dimensional Fermi surface of high-mobility LaAlO$_3$/SrTiO$_3$ interfaces using Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations. Our analysis of the oscillation pattern underscores the key role played by the Rashba spin-orbit interaction brought about by the breaking of inversion symmetry, as well as the dominant contribution of the heavy $d_{xz}$/$d_{yz}$ orbitals on electrical transport. We furthermore bring into light the complex evolution of the oscillations with the carrier density, which is tuned by the field effect.