Vortex spin valve on a topological insulator

Abstract

Spin-valve structures are usually associated with the ability to modify the resistance of electrical currents. We here demonstrate a profoundly different effect of a spin-valve. In combination with a topological insulator and superconducting materials, we show that a spin-valve can be used to toggle quantum vortices in and out of existence. In the antiparallel configuration, the spin valve causes superconducting vortex nucleation. In the parallel configuration, however, no vortices appear. This switching effect suggests a new way to control quantum vortices.