Tunable Exchange Interaction in Quantum Dot Devices

TL;DR

This paper explores how the RKKY interaction between quantum dots can be tuned by adjusting the Fermi energy, enabling control over magnetic interactions in semiconductor quantum dot devices.

Contribution

It provides a theoretical analysis of tunable exchange interactions mediated by conduction electrons in quantum dots, highlighting potential for magnetic control.

Findings

RKKY interaction magnitude depends on electron density and inter-dot distance.

The sign and strength of the exchange interaction can be modulated.

Tunable magnetic transitions are possible in quantum dot systems.

Abstract

We theoretically discuss the Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida (RKKY) interaction between semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). When each QD having a local spin is coupled to the conduction electrons in semiconductors, an indirect exchange interaction, i.e., the RKKY interaction, is induced between two local spins. The RKKY interaction between QDs, which is mediated by the Fermi sea in semiconductors, is modulated by changing the Fermi energy, and the magnitude or even the sign of the exchange interaction can be tuned, which leads to a tunable magnetic transition in QD devices. We estimate the magnitude of the RKKY interaction in QDs as a function of the electron density and the inter-dot distance.