Spin-filtering effects in Würtzite and graphite-like AlN nanowires with Mn impurities

Abstract

Spin transport properties of magnetic nanowire systems - atomic-sized AlN nanowires with additional Mn impurities - are investigated employing ab initio constrained spin density functional theory calculations and nonequilibrium Green's functions formalism. The analyzed nanowire structures exhibit a stress-induced phase transition, between würtzite and graphite-like configurations. In these quasi-one dimensional systems, the surface states ensure the basic prerequisite in establishing spin and charge transfer, by reducing the relatively large bandgap of the group III nitride semiconductor. The results show in how far this phase transition affects the surface states, focusing on the consequences which appear in the spin-filtering processes. © 2013 G. A. Nemnes.