Spin-orbit torque induce topological phase transition in magnetic topological insulator MnB₂Te4

In modern spintronics, the efficient control of magnetic dynamics via electric field has been a central attraction for its potential applications. Spin-orbit torque in the magnetic system lacking inversion symmetry is the most promising mechanism for achieving such control. In the bulk antiferromagnetic system with local inversion symmetry breaking, an electric field can directly induce the symmetry-constrained staggered and uniform spin-orbit torque mediated by spin-orbit coupling, offering an efficient way to manipulate ultrafast magnetization dynamics in antiferromagnets.

Using first principle calculations, we have studied the intrinsic spin orbit torques in the magnetic topological insulator-MnBi₂Te₄ materials. We discover that the magnetization dynamics driven by the spin-orbit torque also drive the topological phase transitions. This provides a new avenue of manipulation and control of topological phases in magnetic materials.