Apr 24, 2024
9:15am - 9:30am
Room 420, Level 4, Summit
Yafei Ren1,Mark Rudner2,Di Xiao2
University of Delaware1,University of Washington2
Yafei Ren1,Mark Rudner2,Di Xiao2
University of Delaware1,University of Washington2
Spin-phonon coupling enables the mutual manipulation of phonon and spin degrees of freedom in solids. In this study, we reveal the inherent nonlinearity within this coupling. Using a paramagnet as an illustration, we demonstrate the nonlinearity by unveiling spontaneous symmetry breaking under a periodic drive. The drive originates from linearly polarized light, respecting a mirror reflection symmetry of the system. However, this symmetry is spontaneously broken in the steady state, manifested in the emergence of coherent chiral phonons accompanied by a nonzero magnetization. We establish an analytical self-consistent equation to find the parameter regime where spontaneous symmetry breaking occurs. Furthermore, we estimate realistic parameters and discuss potential materials that could exhibit this behavior. Our findings shed light on the exploration of nonlinear phenomena in magnetic materials and present possibilities for on-demand control of magnetization.