Export citation

Export citation

Choose format for download:

Download Citation

    Electromagnetic response and emergent topological orders in transition metal dichalcogenide MoTe2 bilayers

    Tianhong Lu1, Yi-Ming Wu2, and Luiz H. Santos1

    • 1Department of Physics, Emory University, 400 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
    • 2Stanford Institute for Theoretical Physics, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA

    Phys. Rev. B 112, 085138 – Published 21 August, 2025

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/3crp-gb3d

    Abstract

    Twisted bilayer transition metal dichalcogenides, such as MoTe2, provide a versatile platform for exploring correlated topological phases. This work investigates the interplay between perpendicular magnetic and electric fields in tuning the electronic structure and emergent topological orders of twisted bilayer MoTe2 (t-MoTe2) across two distinct regimes: a low-twist-angle phase (θ≈2.1∘) hosting multiple Chern bands of identical Chern numbers per valley, and a higher-angle phase (θ≈3.89∘) featuring Haldane-like bands with opposite Chern numbers. Using a continuum model incorporating moiré potentials up to second harmonics, we compute the Hofstadter fractal spectra under applied fields, revealing Landau fan structures and magnetic-flux-dependent band topology. These fractal spectra are useful in studying emergent topological orders in terms of the composite fermion picture, where the statistical Chern-Simons flux is approximated as a uniform gauge field. We demonstrate that the system hosts both Jain-sequence fractional Chern insulators (FCIs) and non-Jain “fractal FCIs” with higher Chern numbers. The electric field suppresses composite fermion gaps and induces topological quantum phase transitions. Furthermore, our analysis extends to valley-contrasting flux attachment, proposing pathways to describe fractional quantum spin Hall states.

    Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

    Authorization Required

    We need you to provide your credentials before accessing this content.

    References (Subscription Required)

    Outline

    Information

    Sign In to Your Journals Account

    Filter

    Filter

    Article Lookup

    Enter a citation