Spin-Filter Device Based on the Rashba Effect Using a Nonmagnetic Resonant Tunneling Diode

Abstract

We propose an electronic spin-filter device that uses a nonmagnetic triple barrier resonant tunneling diode (TB-RTD). This device combines the spin-split resonant tunneling levels induced by the Rashba spin-orbit interaction and the spin blockade phenomena between two regions separated by the middle barrier in the TB-RTD. Detailed calculations using the InAlAs/InGaAs material system reveal that a splitting of a peak should be observed in the [Formula presented] curve of this device as a result of the spin-filtering effect. The filtering efficiency exceeds [Formula presented] at the peak positions in the [Formula presented] curve. © 2002 The American Physical Society.