Electrical detection of spin hyperpolarization in InP

Abstract

The electrical detection of surface spin polarization in Indium Phosphide (InP) is demonstrated. Using a planar four-terminal architecture on top of semi-insulating Fe:InP (001) wafers, optical orientation is separated from electrical detection. Spin filter tunnel contacts consisting of InP/oxide/Co reveal significant asymmetries in the differential resistance upon helicity change of the optical pumping. The iron-rich tunnel oxide provides the main spin selection mechanism. A reproducible helicity-dependent asymmetry as high as 18% could be observed at T = 55 K and an external induction field μ0H = 1 T. At room temperature and zero external field, a helicity-dependent asymmetry of 6% suggests the stand-alone applicability of the device either as an electronic spin sensor or as an optical helicity sensor.