Efficient prediction of topological superlattice bands with spin-orbit coupling

TL;DR

This paper introduces a symmetry indicator framework for efficiently predicting topological properties of superlattice minibands with spin-orbit coupling, requiring only parent material data.

Contribution

The authors develop a simplified, symmetry-based method to determine topological invariants of superlattice bands, applicable beyond perturbative regimes.

Findings

Topological superlattice bands can form in non-topological materials.

The method accurately predicts $ ext{Z}_2$ invariants and Chern numbers.

Guides design of topological heterostructures based on material and superlattice geometry.

Abstract

We develop a symmetry indicator framework to efficiently predict the topology of superlattice-induced minibands with spin-orbit coupling. Our algorithm requires input only from the parent material before the superlattice is applied. The simplification arises by assuming a perturbatively weak superlattice potential; however, our results extend beyond the perturbative regime as long as the superlattice-induced gaps remain open. We first consider a time-reversal- and inversion-symmetric system subject to a weak superlattice potential and derive a compact formula for the $\mathbb{Z}_2$ invariant of the lowest miniband. We then extend to time-reversal breaking systems and compute the Chern number. We apply our theory to selected transition metal dichalcogenides, HgTe/CdTe quantum wells, and thin films of three-dimensional topological insulators and Dirac semimetals. We find topological superlattice bands can arise even from non-topological materials, broadening the pool of candidates for realizing topological flat bands. Our theory predicts which geometry and periodicity of superlattice will yield topological bands for a given material, providing a clear guiding principle for designing topological superlattice heterostructures.