Surface States in Strain-Induced Nodal-Line Topological Semiconductors

Abstract

This work explores the topological phase diagram of inverted-band-gap semiconductors under strain and spin-orbit coupling. Using a minimalistic Luttinger Hamiltonian model, we follow the transitions between a 3D topological insulator, a Dirac semimetal, a nodal-line semimetal, and a Weyl semimetal. Analytical and exact solutions for surface states are derived for high-symmetry directions as well as in several limiting cases. We demonstrate the continuous evolution of these surface states across phase boundaries, providing a unified picture that synthesizes previous literature. Specifically, we detail the progression from a Dirac to a nodal-line and then to a Weyl semimetal as spin-orbit coupling originating from bulk inversion asymmetry is introduced. A hierarchy of energy scales is established, defining the criteria for realizing these phases. Finally, we reveal a non-analyticity in the surface-state dispersion at the projected nodal line, originating from distinct, terminating patches of surface states with unique spin textures in momentum space.