Symmetry-breaking induced transition among net-zero-magnetization magnets

Abstract

Net-zero-magnetization magnets have garnered intensive research attention due to their ultradense and ultrafast potential. In terms of the symmetric classification of connecting magnetic atoms with opposite spin polarization, the net-zero-magnetization magnets mainly include PT -antiferromagnet (the joint symmetry (PT ) of space inversion symmetry (P ) and time-reversal symmetry (T )), altermagnet and fully-compensated ferrimagnet. Studying transitions among net-zero-magnetization magnets is essentially the research on symmetry breaking, which can also clearly reveal the transformation of spin-splitting symmetry. Symmetry breaking can be achieved through methods such as Janus engineering, isovalent alloying, and external electric field. Here, we start from a parent PT -antiferromagnet that simultaneously possesses both P and rotational/mirror symmetries to induce altermagnet and fully-compensated ferrimagnet. Based on first-principles calculations, the proposed transitions can be verified in PT -antiferromagnet Cr2C2S6 monolayer. By Janus engineering and isovalent alloying, Cr2C2S6 can change into altermagnetic Cr2C2S3Se3 and fully-compensated ferrimagnetic CrMoC2S6. The Cr2C2S3Se3 can also become fully-compensated ferrimagnetic CrMoC2S3Se3 by isovalent alloying. Our work provides a clear and intuitive example to explain the transitions among net-zero-magnetization magnets, which can inspire more research on net-zero-magnetization magnets.