Switchable giant spin injection current in the Janus altermagnet
Phys. Rev. B 114, 105115 – Published 12 August, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/9nlj-z5g7
Abstract
Generating and controlling spin current in miniaturized magnetic quantum devices remains a central objective of spintronics, due to its potential to enable future energy-efficient information technologies. Among the existing magnetic phases, altermagnetism has recently emerged as a highly promising platform for spin current generation and control, going beyond ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism. Here, we propose a symmetry-allowed spin photovoltaic effect in two-dimensional (2D) altermagnetic semiconductors that enables predictable control of giant spin injection currents. Distinct from parity-time -antiferromagnets, Janus altermagnetic semiconductors generate not only shift current but also a unique injection current with spin momentum locked in a specific direction under linearly polarized light—a mechanism absent in -antiferromagnets. Through symmetry analysis and first-principles calculations, we identify Janus as a promising candidate. Specifically, the monolayer exhibits a polarization-dependent injection conductivity reaching , and the giant spin injection current can be effectively switched by rotating the magnetization direction and engineering strains. These findings underscore the potential of 2D altermagnets in spin photovoltaics and open avenues for innovative quantum devices.