Topological Insulators in Three Dimensions

Liang Fu, C. L. Kane, and E. J. Mele
Phys. Rev. Lett. 98, 106803 – Published 7 March 2007

Abstract

We study three-dimensional generalizations of the quantum spin Hall (QSH) effect. Unlike two dimensions, where a single Z2 topological invariant governs the effect, in three dimensions there are 4 invariants distinguishing 16 phases with two general classes: weak (WTI) and strong (STI) topological insulators. The WTI are like layered 2D QSH states, but are destroyed by disorder. The STI are robust and lead to novel “topological metal” surface states. We introduce a tight binding model which realizes the WTI and STI phases, and we discuss its relevance to real materials, including bismuth.

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  • Received 26 July 2006

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.106803

©2007 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Liang Fu, C. L. Kane, and E. J. Mele

  • Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA

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Issue

Vol. 98, Iss. 10 — 9 March 2007

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