Three-dimensional flat band in the topological electride of -KAl
Phys. Rev. B 114, 245136 – Published 29 October, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/6gxj-qnhs
Abstract
By means of first-principles calculations and crystal structure predictions, we identify a series of potassium-aluminum (K-Al) compounds under high pressure, which are absent in ambient conditions. Among them, the P4/nmm KAl phase, stable under pressure from 15 to 70 GPa, exhibits a range of intriguing electronic properties, including a three-dimensional (3D) flat band near , a composite nodal network, and 3D interstitial anionic electrons (IAEs). The 3D flat band of the highest valence band leads to a Van Hove singularity (VHS) with two saddle points near . In addition, there exists a visible band inversion between the K-- and the Al--dominant bands, which generates a composite nodal network without spin-orbit coupling (SOC), and evolves into a Dirac semimetal once SOC is included. Furthermore, calculations of local charge distributions indicate the existence of IAEs. Notably, the and states make a significant contribution to the 3D flat band and composite nodal network. Thus, our study not only enriches the phase diagram of a K-Al system, but also proposes a potential platform for studying the interplay among a 3D flat band, a 3D flat-band-induced VHS, and a 3D topological electride behavior.