A theoretical investigation on the possible improvement of spin-filter effects by an electric field for a zigzag graphene nanoribbon with a line defect Original Research Article

The spin-polarized electronic properties for a zigzag-edge graphene nanoribbon (ZGNR) with an extended line defect are investigated, particularly focusing on controlling the effects of an external transverse electric field (Eext). An ab initio scanning tunneling microscope image for the defective ZGNR is also predicted. Results show that such a ZGNR can exhibit a strong spin polarization and ferromagnetic state, and the spin-filter effect can be significantly tuned and improved by the Eext. The spin-filter efficiency for our proposed device is predicted to be able to reach up to 60–81% in a large bias range of 0–0.6 V at Eext = 3.0 V/nm. Mechanisms for such results and the experimental feasibility for the device are suggested. These findings suggest a new possibility for developing nanometer-scale all-carbon spintronic devices.