Topological nodal-line semimetal in nonsymmorphic Cmce-phase Ag₂S

Based on first-principles calculations and symmetry analysis, we discovery that the Ag₂S with Cmce symmetry is a topological nodal-line semimetal in the absence of spin-orbit coupling. A single nodal loop as protected by the glide symmetry exists around the center of the Brillouin zone, dispersing slightly in the momentum space to form both electron and hole pockets around the loop. Moreover, a nearly flat drumheadlike surface state appears on the (001) surface of this material. The nodal-line semimetal phase and its drumheadlike surface states are expected to be experimentally detectable in Cmce-phase Ag₂S, because spin-orbit coupling will only open a negligible gap comparing to the energy dispersion of the nodal loop. Our finding provides a new member to the growing family of nodal-line semimetals with a single nodal loop structure.