Topological transition induced by selective random defects on a honeycomb lattice

TL;DR

This study explores how selective random defects can induce topological transitions in honeycomb lattice electron systems, revealing controllable spectral and topological property changes.

Contribution

It demonstrates that selective random defects can smoothly connect or induce transitions between topological phases in honeycomb lattices, offering a new way to control electronic properties.

Findings

Selective random defects can induce topological transitions.

Topological properties can be smoothly connected or separated by defects.

Effective model shows defects modulate hopping amplitudes.

Abstract

We investigate how the spectral and topological properties of electron systems evolve on a lattice that interpolates between the honeycomb and its 1/6-depleted structures through the introduction of selective random defects. We find that in certain parameter regimes, the topological properties of the two lattice systems are smoothly connected, whereas in other regimes, selective random defects induce a topological transition. Analysis based on an effective model reveals that the effect of selective random defects can be understood as a modulation of hopping amplitudes. Our results highlight the potential for designing and controlling the spectral and even topological properties of electronic systems across a wide range of material platforms.