Edge states interferometry and spin rotations in zigzag graphene nanoribbons

Abstract

An interesting property of zigzag graphene nanoribbons is the presence of edge states which are extended along its borders but localized in the transverse direction. We show that because of this property, electron transport through an externally induced potential well displays two-paths-interference oscillations when subject either to a magnetic or a transverse electric field. This effect does not require the existence of an actual `hole' in the nanoribbon's geometry. Moreover, since edge states are spin polarized, having opposite polarization on opposite sides, such interference effect can be used to rotate the spin of the incident carriers in a controlled way.