Spin-Orbit Physics Giving Rise to Novel Phases in Correlated Systems: Iridates and Related Materials

TL;DR

This review explores how spin-orbit coupling in iridates and related materials leads to novel phases and phenomena, highlighting recent progress and fundamental concepts in correlated electron systems.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the role of spin-orbit coupling in iridates, emphasizing new phases and properties in these correlated materials.

Findings

Iridates exhibit unconventional magnetic and electronic phases due to strong SOC.

Perovskite and honeycomb iridates show unique properties linked to their structure.

The review discusses theoretical models and experimental observations of these phenomena.

Abstract

Recently, the effects of spin-orbit coupling (SOC) in correlated materials have become one of the most actively studied subjects in condensed matter physics, as correlations and SOC together can lead to the discovery of new phases. Among candidate materials, iridium oxides (iridates) have been an excellent playground to uncover such novel phenomena. In this review, we discuss recent progress in iridates and related materials, focusing on the basic concepts, relevant microscopic Hamiltonians, and unusual properties of iridates in perovskite- and honeycomb-based structures. Perspectives on SOC and correlation physics beyond iridates are also discussed.