Abstract
Majorana fermions were proposed to occur at edges and interfaces of gapped one-dimensional systems where phases with different topological character meet due to an interplay of spin-orbit coupling, proximity-induced superconductivity and external magnetic fields. Here we investigate the effect of strong particle interactions and show that a helical liquid offers a mechanism that protects the very existence of Majorana edge states: whereas moderate interactions close the proximity gap that supports the edge states, in helical liquids the gap reopens due to two-particle processes. However, gapless fermionic excitations occur at spatial proximity to the Majorana states at interfaces and may jeopardize their long-term Majorana coherence.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 085114 |
Journal | Physical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics |
Volume | 84 |
Issue number | 8 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 22 Aug 2011 |
Externally published | Yes |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Condensed Matter Physics