Physics

Unveiling unconventional magnetism at the surface of Sr₂RuO₄

R. Fittipaldi, R. Hartmann, et al.

This groundbreaking study unveils surface magnetism in Sr₂RuO₄'s normal state, observed through low-energy muon spin spectroscopy. With static weak dipolar fields emerging above 50 K, the research attributes this unconventional magnetism to orbital loop currents at the surface, promising insights into electronic ordering mechanisms that could affect electron pairing with broken time reversal symmetry. Conducted by a team of researchers including R. Fittipaldi and M. T. Mercaldo, this work sets a precedent for similar explorations in various materials.