Strain-tuning of edge magnetism in zigzag graphene nanoribbons

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how applying strain to zigzag graphene nanoribbons can significantly enhance edge magnetism, potentially enabling room-temperature magnetic control in graphene-based devices.

Contribution

It introduces a method to tune edge magnetism in graphene nanoribbons through strain, revealing a new approach for magnetic control at practical temperatures.

Findings

Strain induces ferromagnetic-like behavior with weak Coulomb interactions.

Edge magnetism is greatly enhanced by increasing strain along the zigzag edge.

Potential for room-temperature magnetic control in graphene nanoribbons.

Abstract

Using the determinant quantum Monte-Carlo method, we elucidate the strain tuning of edge magnetism in zigzag graphene nanoribbons. Our intensive numerical results show that a relatively weak Coulomb interaction may induce a ferromagnetic-like behaviour with a proper strain, and the edge magnetism can be enhanced greatly as the strain along the zigzag edge increases, which provides another way to control graphene magnetism even at room temperature.