Correlation-driven charge order in a frustrated two-dimensional atom lattice

TL;DR

This study combines experimental STM observations and theoretical modeling to reveal that electron correlations, not Fermi surface nesting, drive charge order in a frustrated 2D Pb/Si(111) lattice, resolving a longstanding debate.

Contribution

It demonstrates that electron correlations are the main cause of charge order in Pb/Si(111), using combined experimental and theoretical approaches, and highlights the material's potential for exotic quantum states.

Findings

Charge order accompanied by structural reconstruction detected via STM.

Theoretical phase diagram shows correlation-driven charge order.

Electron correlations, not Fermi surface nesting, drive the charge order.

Abstract

We thoroughly examine the ground state of the triangular lattice of Pb on Si(111) using scanning tunneling microscopy. We detect charge-order, accompanied by a subtle structural reconstruction. Applying the extended variational cluster approach we map out the phase diagram as a function of local and non-local Coulomb interactions. Comparing the experimental data with the theoretical modeling leads us to conclude that electron correlations are the driving force of the charge-ordered state in Pb/Si(111), rather than Fermi surface nesting. These results resolve the discussion about the origin of the well known $3\times 3$ reconstruction forming below $86\,$K. By exploiting the tunability of correlation strength, hopping parameters and bandfilling, this material class represents a promising platform to search for exotic states of matter, in particular, for chiral topological superconductivity.