Ab initio simulation framework for Majorana transport in 2D materials: towards topological quantum computing

Abstract

We present an ab initio modeling framework to simulate Majorana transport in 2D semiconducting materials, paving the way for topological qubits based on 2D nanoribbons. By combining density-functional-theory and quantum transport calculations, we show that the signature of Majorana bound states (MBSs) can be found in 2D material systems as zero-energy modes with peaks in the local density-of-states. The influence of spin-orbit coupling and external magnetic fields on Majorana transport is studied for two relevant 2D materials, WSe2 and PbI2. To illustrate the capabilities of the proposed ab initio platform, a device structure capable of hosting MBSs is created from a PbI2 nanoribbon and carefully investigated. These results are compared to InSb nanowires and used to provide design guidelines for 2D topological qubits.