Nonlinear dynamics of quantum dot nuclear spins

Abstract

We report manifestly nonlinear dependence of quantum dot nuclear spin polarization on applied magnetic fields. Resonant absorption and emission of circularly polarized radiation pumps the resident quantum dot electron spin, which in turn leads to nuclear spin polarization due to hyperfine interaction. We observe that the resulting Overhauser field exhibits hysteresis as a function of the external magnetic field. This hysteresis is a consequence of the feedback of the Overhauser field on the nuclear spin cooling rate. A semi-classical model describing the coupled nuclear and electron spin dynamics successfully explains the observed hysteresis but leaves open questions for the low field behaviour of the nuclear spin polarization.