Journey of the 2D Intrinsic Antiferromagnetic Topological Insulators in the (MnBi2Te4)(Bi2Te3)n Homologous Series

• Published in: Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany) Vol. 21; no. 17; pp. e2411464 - n/a
• Main Authors: Pancholi, Abhinav, Kumar, Abhinav, Roychowdhury, Subhajit
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Germany Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.04.2025
• Subjects: anomalous Hall; Antiferromagnetism; Bismuth tellurides; Magnetic properties; Quantum computing; Structural analysis; thermal transport; Topological insulators; topological quantum materials; Topology; two‐dimensional crystal structure; topological quantum materials; antiferromagnetism; two‐dimensional crystal structure; thermal transport; anomalous Hall
• ISSN: 1613-6810; 1613-6829; 1613-6829
• DOI: 10.1002/smll.202411464

In recent years, the study of two‐dimensional (2D) intrinsic antiferromagnetic (AFM) topological insulators (TIs) has attracted considerable attention due to their unique electronic and magnetic properties, which are promising for the advancement of quantum computing and spintronic applications. MnBi2Te4, recognized as the first intrinsic AFM TI, provides a unique platform for examining theoretical predictions in the field of quantum materials. This discovery has sparked extensive research and led to numerous new insights that have improved the understanding of the interplay between magnetism and topology in two‐dimensional systems. The homologous series (MnBi2Te4)(Bi2Te3)n, with its alternating layers of MnBi2Te4 and Bi2Te3, exhibits tunable magnetic and topological properties, making it a subject of intense investigation. This review comprehensively examines advances in the (MnBi2Te4)(Bi2Te3)n homologous series, including their synthesis, structural characterization, and study of magnetic and electronic properties. Key experimental observations are highlighted, which have been instrumental in elucidating the fundamental physics of these materials. Additionally, several unresolved questions and potential future research directions are discussed, providing valuable insights for researchers seeking to advance this integrated field. This review serves as a reference for understanding the potential and future advancements of 2D AFM TIs, fostering further exploration of their complex and promising properties. This review systematically summarizes the advancements in the (MnBi2Te4)(Bi2Te3)n homologous series in terms of synthesis, structural characterization, and the investigation of their transport properties. It highlights their potential applications and significance in quantum materials research, while addressing the challenges and outlining the future research directions to further advance the field.