Abstract
We propose a simple way of evaluating the bulk spin generation of an arbitrary crystal with a known band structure in the strong spin-orbit coupling limit. We show that, in the presence of an electric field, there exists an intrinsic torque term which gives rise to a nonzero spin generation rate. Using methods similar to those of recent experiments which measure spin polarization in semiconductors, this spin generation rate should be experimentally observable. The wide applicability of this effect is emphasized by explicit consideration of a range of examples: bulk wurtzite and strained zinc-blende (-GaAs) lattices, as well as quantum well heterojunction systems.
- Received 17 February 2005
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.72.045215
©2005 American Physical Society