The aim of the symposium is to bring the German and Chinese communities working on computational electronic structure theory into closer contact and catalyze the formation of bilateral collaborations. Being the first such workshop in this area, we aim to give a representative overview of the field ranging from ab-initio methods and applications to the description of strongly correlated materials. Topics include
The symposium is funded by Chinesisch-Deutsches Zentrum für Wissenschaftsförderung, a cooperation of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG).
Monday, 21 September | ||
---|---|---|
9:00 | V. Blum | Density functional theory and beyond with FHI aims: Concepts and applications
Density functional theory and beyond with FHI-aims: Concepts and applicationsVolker Blum, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, BerlinWe describe the Fritz Haber Institute ab-initio molecular simulations (FHI-aims) computer program package, an efficient computer code for all-electron quantum-mechanical simulations of molecules and solids, based on compact, accurate numeric atom-centered quantum-mechanical basis sets. The primary production method for total energies and gradients is density functional theory (LDA and GGA) for molecules and periodic systems. Additional functionality includes quantum-chemical approaches (Hartree-Fock, hybrid functionals, MP2) and self-energy-based methods (e.g., GW) for electronic spectroscopic properties. FHI-aims allows fully quantum-mechanical simulations for systems up to thousands of atoms, and performs efficiently also on massively parallel platforms (BlueGene) with possibly thousands of CPUs. We here demonstrate the approach (i) by tackling the formation of secondary structure in benchmark polyalanine peptides from first principles, and (ii) by a direct density functional theory assessment of the large-scale "hex" surface reconstructions of the Au(100) and Pt(100) surfaces, regarding structure, energetics, and a possible underlying electronic driving mechanism. |
9:40 | L.X. He | Method to construct transferable minimal basis sets for ab-initio calculations
Method to construct transferable minimal basis sets for ab-initio calculationsLixin He, Key Laboratory of Quantum Information, University of Science and Technology of China, HefeiWe propose a new scheme to construct transferable minimal basis of localized orbitals for ab-initio calculations. We first extract a set of highly localized Wannier-like orbitals from the reference systems. For each orbital, we decompose it to a pseudo-atomic orbital, augmented by small local functions centered at its nearest neighbor atoms. When applied for a real system, the center of each local function moves with its associated atoms, without changing its shape and amplitude. We have done intensive tests of this scheme for III-V and group IV semiconductors and find it has very good transferability, way better than the original Wannier-like orbitals, while still keep the basis size minimal. This work sheds new lights on why Wannier and Wannier-like functions are not transferable as one may expect. |
10:20 | J.L. Yang | Nearly free electron states in gated graphene nanoribbon superlattices
Nearly Free Electron States in Gated Graphene Nanoribbon SuperlatticesJinlong Yang, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technolgy of China, HefeiWe propose a facile way to obtain one-dimensional electron gas (1DEG) in vacuum by occupying nearly free electron (NFE) states in graphene nanoribbon (GNR) superlattice, which can be used to construct graphene based field effect transistor. Our first principles calculations suggest that there are two types of NFE states in GNR superlattices. One type locates close to ribbon surfaces while the other type locates in the vacuum between two ribbons. Upon electron doping, the latter is easy to be lowered in energy and even be occupied, forming a clean 1DEG system. These two types of NFE states can be simply interpreted using a 1D Kronig-Penney potential model. |
11:00 | Coffee | |
11:20 | O. Gunnarsson | Electron-phonon coupling in strongly correlated systems
Electron-phonon coupling in strongly correlated systemsOlle Gunnarsson, Max-Planck-Institut für Festkörperforschung, StuttgartThe electron-phonon interaction (EPI) is discussed for strongly correlated systems. For non-interacting electrons, effects of the EPI can often be characterized by the coupling strength and the phonon frequency. For strongly correlated systems this information is not sufficient. It is argued that effects of the EPI depends crucially on which phonons are considered and which property is studied. These issues are discussed, using examples from alkali-doped fullerides and high-Tc cuprates. |
12:00 | Z. Fang | LDA+Gutzwiller method for correlated electron systems
LDA+Gutzwiller Method for Correlated Electron SystemsZhong Fang, Institute of Physic, Chinese Academy of Science, BeijingWe will introduce our newly developed ab-initio LDA+Gutzwiller method, in which the Gutzwiller variational approach is naturally incorporated with the density functional theory (DFT) through the 'Gutzwiller density functional theory (GDFT)' (which is a generalization of original Kohn-Sham formalism). This method can be used for ground state determination of electron systems ranging from weakly correlated metal to strongly correlated insulators with long-range ordering. We will show that its quality for ground state is as high as that by dynamic mean field theory (DMFT), and yet it is computationally much cheaper. In addition, the method is fully variational, the charge-density self-consistency can be naturally achieved, and the quantities, such as total energy, linear response, can be accurately obtained similar to LDA-type calculations. Applications on several typical systems will be presented, and the characteristic aspects of this new method will be demonstrated. Finally, by applying this method to FeAs-based compounds, we will show that some of the difficult issues, such as the Fe-As bond length and the magnetic moment of the SDW state, can be solved.
[1] X. Y. Deng, X. Dai, Z. Fang, Europhys. Lett. 83, 37008 (2008) |
12:40 | Lunch | |
14:30 | X.G. Wan | Calculated magnetic exchange interactions in high-temperature superconductors
Calculated magnetic exchange interactions in high-temperature superconductorsX.G. Wan, Department of Physics, Nanjing UniversityUsing a first-principles linear-response approach, we study the magnetic exchange interactions J for a series of superconducting cuprates. We reproduce the observed spin-wave dispersions together with other experimental trends, and show that different cuprates have similar J's regardless of their Tc. The nearest-neighbor J is not sensitive to the hole doping, which agrees with recent experiments. For the undoped cuprates, the second nearest-neighbor J is ferromagnetic, but changes its sign with hole doping. We also find that, in contrast to the hopping integral, the exchange interaction is not sensitive to the position of apical oxygen. To see the effect of the long-range nature of the exchange on the superconducting Tc, we study the dynamical spin susceptibility χ(q,ω) within the t-J model using a dynamical cluster approximation. |
15:10 | E. Pavarini | Origin of orbital-order in KCuF3 and LaMnO3
Origin of orbital-order in KCuF3 and LaMnO3Eva Pavarini, Institut für Festkörperforschung, Forschungszentrum JülichOrbital-ordering phenomena play a fundamental role in determining the electronic and magnetic properties of many strongly correlated oxides. The origin of orbital-order in real materials is, however, still controversial. The classical examples of orbitally-ordered systems are KCuF3 and LaMnO3, two materials with very different physics. Using the LDA+DMFT approach we disentangle the effects of the different lattice distortions, electron localization, and many-body superexchange and clarify the mechanism of orbital-order in these two paradigmatic compounds.
E. Pavarini, E. Koch, and A.I. Lichtenstein, Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 266405 (2008) |
15:50 | Coffee | |
16:10 | Z.Y. Lu | Electronic structure and magnetic properties of iron pnictides |
16:50 | O.K. Andersen | Explaining the band structure and magnetism of the new iron superconductors |
17:30 | H.O. Jeschke | Ab-initio molecular dynamics for structural properties of layered Mott insulators and iron pnictides
ab-initio molecular dynamics for structural properties of layered Mott insulators and iron pnictidesHarald O. Jeschke, Institut für Theoretische Physik, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am MainWe employ Car-Parrinello molecular dynamics for the investigation of the structural response of low dimensional materials under the influence of pressure or doping. For the multiorbital Mott insulator TiOCl, we study the pressure induced transition to a metallic phase. This phase is characterized by a strong Ti-Ti dimerization. At even higher pressures, we predict the dimerization to disappear in a second phase transition. In an investigation of the effect of sodium intercalation of the layered material TiOCl, we predict the positions of the sodium ions in superlattice structures and show that surprisingly Na fails to metallize the Mott insulator TiOCl for all studied concentrations. We propose a description in terms of a multiorbital ionic Hubbard model. For the AFe2As2 (A=Ca, Sr, Ba) family of iron pnictide superconductors, we we investigate the electronic and lattice structure under pressure. We observe that the structural phase transition from orthorhombic to tetragonal symmetry is always accompanied by a magnetic phase transition in all the compounds, while the nature of the transitions is different for the three systems. Our calculations explain the origin of the existence of a collapsed tetragonal phase in CaFe2As2 and its absence in BaFe2As2. Our results show the large potential of unbiased structural relaxations using ab-initio molecular dynamics for the study of pressure and doping induced effects. |
18:10 | Discussions & Dinner | |
Tuesday, 22 September | ||
9:00 | Q. Sun | Computational design of materials for hydrogen storage in quasi-molecular form
Computational design of materials for hydrogen storage in quasi-molecular formQiang Sun, Department of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology and Center for Applied Physics and Technology, Peking University, BeijingHydrogen is the least complex and most abundant element in the universe. As an energy carrier, hydrogen is non-toxic, renewable, clean to use, and packs much more energy per pound. Therefore hydrogen will play a critical role in a new, decentralized energy infrastructure that can provide power to vehicles, homes, and industries. However, one of the biggest challenges in a new hydrogen economy is storage, since the storage medium must meet the requirements of high gravimetric and volumetric density, fast kinetics and favorable thermodynamics. The current methods of storing hydrogen as compressed gas or in the liquid form does not meet the industry requirements since the energy densities are much lower than that in gasoline. Moreover, there are issues of safety and cost involved in compressing hydrogen under high pressure or liquefying it at cryogenic temperatures. Although storage of hydrogen in solid state materials offers an alternative, there are no current solid state storage materials that meet the industry requirement. By using state-of-art simulation techniques, we have systematically studied the interactions of hydrogen molecules with diverse nanostructures in order to gain insight into the design of new materials for hydrogen storage. In this talk I will review our research progress in computational design of nano-materials for hydrogen storage, focusing on (1) Functionalized fullerenes and heterofullerenes for hydrogen storage; (2) Coordinately unsaturated metal sites in matrix for hydrogen storage; (3) hybrid porous materials for hydrogen storage. These subjects stand for the current new directions in searching for new materials for hydrogen storage. |
9:40 | S. Blügel | Computational design of materials for spintronics
Computational Design of Materials for SpintronicsStefan Blügel, Institute for Advanced Simulation and Institut für Festkörperforschung, Forschungszentrum JülichMagnetic storage and magnetic recording is world wide by far the most important way to save data and information over long times. The quest to store information in increasingly smaller volumes, to read, write and process information faster and with decreasing usage of energy in combination with the non-volatile properties of magnetism, singles out spintronics as an important and very active research field. The success of the field depends in large on the design of materials and materials combinations that meet specific properties and functionalities, e.g. a maximum tunnel magnetoresistance ratio (TMR) at room temperature of a metal-oxide tunneljunction. It turns out that the computational materials design based on materials specific quantum mechanics, which means density functional theory (DFT) for most of the cases, combined with the computation of thermodynamical properties provides a successful path in stimulating experiments and guiding design principles. In this talk (i) we discuss the electronic structure of typical half-metals, of half-metals at surfaces and interfaces as obtained from ab-initio calculations [1], (ii) we emphasize that interface states at the interfaces of tunneljunctions can have severe implications on the TMR [2], (iii) we show that the large TMR ratio of Fe/MgO/Fe is a result of a Bloch state filtering, which is sensitive to modifications of one atomic layer at the interface or small changes of the c/a ratio, (iv) we discuss the temperature dependence of the magnetic properties [3] by relating ab-initio results to the classical Heisenberg model and thus investigating the Curie temperature of MgO1-xNx in the context of a potential spin-filter material [4]. (v) We also propose a magnetic lead for metal/MgO/metal with a maximal Curie temperature above 1200 K [5] and an antiferromagnetically coupled TMR element made of half-metals without interface states based on an a priori understanding of the exchange interactions in such systems, as paradigms of materials design from first principles. The thermal properties of the Heisenberg model are determined by Monte Carlo calculations, while the long range Heisenberg exchange parameters are calculated on the basis of the density functional theory for example by performing spin-spiral calculations with finite cone-angles within the FLAPW method [6] or exploiting the Green function in the Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker Green function method [7]. Finally, we discuss results of the recently completed SPEX program [8], an efficient implementation of the GW approximation for the electronic self-energy within the all-electron FLAPW method as addition to our FLEUR project [9], which allows us to calculate the band gaps of oxides such as MgO1-xNx beyond the local density approximation.
[1] M. Lezaic, Ph. Mavropoulos, G. Bihlmayer and S. Blugel, J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39, 797 (2006) |
10:20 | W.Q. Zhang | Search for new thermoelectric materials based on electronic structure calculations |
11:00 | Coffee | |
11:20 | Z. Zeng | Characterizing graphene by doping
Characterizing Graphene by DopingZhi Zeng, Institute of Solid State Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, HefeiElectronic structure of zigzag-edged graphene nanoribbons (ZGNRs) doped with boron(B) or nitrogen(N) atoms are investigated by spin polarized first-principles calculations. Interesting phenomena have been inspected in the doping systems, such as the alternation between semiconducting, half-metallic or metallic by controlling the distance of the impurity atoms to the edges, spin filtering effect in doped graphene device, and the enhancement of lithium storage capacity in boron doped graphene; etc. The mechanisms of these effects are discussed and our results have provided useful approaches to manipulate the graphene.
X.H. Zheng, G.R. Zhang, Z. Zeng, V.M. Garcia-Suarez, and C.J. Lambert,
Phys. Rev. B 80, 075413 (2009) |
12:00 | D.Y. Sun | Capillary force induced structural instability in liquid encapsulated elastic circular tubes
Capillary force-induced structural instability in liquid encapsulated elastic circular tubesY. Yang, Y.F. Gao, D.Y. Sun, Department of Physics, East China Normal University, Shanghai
|
12:40 | Lunch | |
14:30 | A. Dolfen | Realistic description of strongly correlated organics
Realistic description of the strongly correlated organicsAndreas Dolfen, German Research School for Simulation Sciences, JülichThe physics of strongly correlated materials is one of the grand-challenges in condensed-matter sciences. Density functional theory fails due to the importance of the Coulomb repulsion between localized electrons. Instead we use non-perturbative many-body techniques which are, however, computationally demanding and only feasible for quite small model systems. We replace the full Hamiltonian of a real material with a model Hamiltonian comprising only the most important electronic degrees of freedom. The effect of all other electrons can merely be included in an average way in form of parameters. In the talk we will cover how to obtain these effective parameters using the one-dimensional organic metal TTF-TCNQ as an example. Moreover we show how we solve the resulting Hamiltonian with a parallel Lanczos method making efficient use of the memory and computational power of the massively parallel IBM BlueGene/P system for such calculations. To gain high-resolution angular-resolved spectral functions we employ cluster perturbation theory (CPT) which helps identifying signatures of spin-charge separation also found experimentally in TTF-TCNQ. |
15:10 | S. Chen | First principles study of multiternary semiconductors and their alloys
First-principles study of the multiternary semiconductors and their alloysShiyou Chen and Xin Gao Gong, Physics Department, Fudan University, Shanghai
|
15:50 | Coffee | |
16:10 | R.O. Jones | Molecular dynamics/density functional (MD/DF) calculations for phase change memory materials: progress and promise
Molecular dynamics/density functional (MD/DF) calculations for phase change memory materials : progress and promiseRobert O. Jones, Institut für Festkörperforschung, Forschungszentrum JülichThe latest generation of supercomputers has changed dramatically our ability to perform calculations on materials, and we shall demonstrate this for phase change materials (PCM). These are the recording layers of familiar rewriteable optical storage devices such as CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc. Nanosize amorphous bits are "written" by a laser in a polycrystalline layer and "erased" by another laser pulse in a crystallization process at a temperature below the melting point. Understanding such processes is impossible without knowing the structures of the phases involved, and DF calculations are ideal for this purpose. We show that MD/DF calculations are possible for hundreds of atoms over a time scale approaching those relevant experimentally. Our examples include amorphous Ge/Sb/Te alloys, and we show that the results can be used in conjunction with experimental data to provide convincing structural details. J. Akola, R. O. Jones et al., Phys. Rev. B 80, 020201(R) (2009) |
16:50 | S.H. Wei | Computational study of unusual material properties of oxides
Computational Study of Unusual Material Properties of OxidesSu-Huai Wei, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO, USAPost-transition metal oxides (ZnO, In2O3, SnO2, etc.) and their alloys comprise a group of materials that have many unique physical properties such as simultaneously high electron conductivity and optical transmission, high catalytic efficiency, and chemical stability. Therefore, they are widely used in optoelectronic applications such as photovoltaic and photoelectrochemical devices, LEDs, display panels, and chemical sensors. They have also been proposed as ideal hosts for high TC spintronic materials. Using first-principles method, we have calculated material properties of the metal oxides, demonstrating that the properties of the binary and multinary oxides are more complex than previously thought. We find that (i) many oxides (In2O3, Cd2SnO4, etc.) have non-equivalent fundamental and optical band gaps, arising from parity forbidden band edge transitions; a good transparent conducting oxide should have small fundamental band gap but a large optical band gap [1]. (ii) The band gap renormalization in degenerate n-type doped oxides arises from the nonparabolic nature of the conduction band (i.e., not a rigid shift as previous thought), and is highly sensitive to the electronic states of the dopants [2]. (iii) The ground state crystal structure of the non-isostructural (InMO3)m(ZnO)n (M=In, Ga, Al) alloy should satisfy several fundamental rules such as the octahedron rule and the octet rule [3]. The formation of the layer quaternary structure or amorphous structure also results in some interesting changes in the electronic and optical properties of the alloy [4]. (iv) The origin of the electron and hole induced ferromagnetism in oxides are investigated [5, 6]. For example, we show that the spontaneous magnetization in d0 oxides with sufficient holes is intrinsic properties of the oxides and can be enhanced by anion site doping or through quantum confinement [6]. (v) We have proposed a designing principle for the band edge modification of the oxide materials. For example, we demonstrate that TiO2 co-doped with Mo and C is suitable for photoelectrochemical water splitting applications [7]. (vi) Finally, we have analyzed the doping asymmetry problem in the wide-gap oxides and proposed several approaches to overcome the p-type and bipolar doping bottlenecks in these materials [8].
[1] A. Walsh, J. L. F. Da Silva, S.-H. Wei et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 100, 167402 (2008) |
17:30 | Dinner | |
Wednesday, 23 September | ||
9:00 | J. Ni | Boron and boron-carbon nanostructures
Boron and boron-carbon nanostructuresJun Ni, Department of Physics, Tsinghua University, BeijingLow dimensional structures, such as clusters, planar sheet and nanotubes, often show striking properties with various applications in electronic and magnetic nano-devices. For carbon nanostructures, there are C60 fullerene cage, graphene and carbon nanotubes, which have the similar constructed units due to the sp2 hybridization. As the nearest-row neighbor of carbon, boron is fascinated for the multicentre bonds in the crystal structures. In this talk, I will report our recent theoretical results of boron and boron-carbon nanostructures. The boron sheet is metal. Rolled from the sheet, the nanotubes can be either metals or semiconductors dependent of diameter and chirality, which may exhibit potential applications similar to carbon nanotubes. The boron nanoribbons constructed from the stable boron sheet also shows rich electronic properties. The bare boron nanoribbons with different edges are metals, while the boron nanoribbons with hydrogen passivated on the zigzag edges become semiconductors. Boron and carbon can form binary ordered nanostructures. The BC3 nanoribbons with the armchair shaped edges are all semiconductors, while BC3 nanoribbons with the zigzag shaped edges are semiconductors or metals dependent on the edge atoms. I will also discuss the hydrogenation of boron-carbon ordering sheets. We find that hydro-boron-carbon have both stable semiconducting and metallic conformations. Because of the rich electronic properties, the boron-carbon nanostructures are the potential low-dimensional materials for nano-electronic and device applications. |
9:40 | Z.Q. Yang | First principles investigation on quantum transport of atomic and molecular wires
First principles investigation on quantum transport of atomic and molecular wiresZhongqin Yang, Surface Physics Laboratory (National Key Laboratory), Fudan University, ShanghaiWe studied quantum transport of carbon atomic wires and alkane molecules sandwiched between gold electrodes using a first-principles method based on density functional theory and nonequilibrium Green’s function formalism. We found finite sized atomic wires with even number of carbon atoms have magnetism, while wires with odd number atoms have no net magnetic moment. Perfect spin filtering effect can be obtained by slightly straining the wire after it was connected to electrodes. We also explored the effects of binding modes and anchoring groups on electronic transport properties of alkane chains. When the alkanes anchored with SH, NH2, or COOH groups, all the conductance values related to the four binding modes considered are found to divide into two sets: high and low conductance, explaining well the observations in recent experiments. When the bias increases to non-linear I-V region, the characteristic of two sets of the conductance is found to disappear. The results may be useful for the application of atomic and molecular wires in molecular electronics. |
10:20 | S. Andergassen | Correlation effects on transport through quantum dots and wires
Correlation effects on transport through quantum dots and wiresSabine Andergassen, Institut für Theoretische Physik A, RWTH AachenThe low-energy transport properties of mesoscopic systems are strongly influenced by electron correlations. The effects arising on different energy scales can be described very efficiently by renormalization-group techniques. We will focus on the functional renormalization group as a promising approach to investigate more complex geometries, and present applications to quantum dots and wires illustrating the interplay of Kondo physics and Luttinger-liquid behavior. |
11:00 | Coffee | |
11:20 | E. Koch | Quantum cluster extensions of dynamical mean-field theory
Quantum cluster extensions of dynamical mean-field theoryErik Koch, Institut für Festkörperforschung and Institute for Advanced Simulation, Forschungszentrum Jülich
Dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT) describes a correlated solid as a single unit-cell embedded in a self-consistent bath. A natural generalization is to increase the number of lattice sites treated explicitly, i.e. considering clusters. The DMFT approximation to the self-energy is then less severe. Moreover on a cluster it is possible to study (short-range) correlations, which are not accessible in a single site approximation. Cluster extensions of DMFT are, however, not unique. We show that the two common approaches, cellular DMFT (CDMFT) and the dynamical cluster approximation (DCA), are merely two particular choices of a general gauge freedom, the phase on the cluster sites.
E. Koch, G. Sangiovanni, O. Gunnarsson, Phys. Rev. B 78 115102 (2008) |
12:00 | E. Gorelov | Continuous-time quantum Monte Carlo solvers for DMFT
Continuous-time quantum Monte Carlo solvers for DMFTEvgeny Gorelov, Institut für Festkörperforschung, Forschungszentrum JülichWe discuss the numerically exact continuous-time quantum Monte Carlo (ct-QMC) algorithm in the weak coupling scheme for electronic structure calculations of strongly correlated multi-band models in the framework of dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT). As a example, we discuss the end members of the family of layered rithenates Ca2-xSrxRuO4. In particular, we analyze the nature of metal-insulator transition in Ca2RuO4. As a second application of the ct-QMC solver, we study single magnetic impurities in a non-magnetic environment (Kondo systems), particularly a Co impurity in/on Cu crystals. |
12:40 | Lunch | |
14:30 | S. Heinze | Understanding spin-sensitive scanning probe microscopy based on electronic structure theory
Understanding spin-sensitive scanning probe microscopy based on electronic structure theoryStefan Heinze, Institut für Theoretische Physik und Astrophysik, Universität KielIn recent years, spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy (SP-STM) has been established as a technique to resolve magnetic nanostructures down to the atomic scale [1-4]. Very recently, it has even become possible to measure the exchange interactions between tip and sample by magnetic exchange force microscopy (MExFM) [5,6]. However, the interpretation of such measurements is non-trivial, especially on the atomic scale. For SP-STM there are various contributions to the tunneling current from structural, electronic, chemical, and magnetic sample properties. For MExFM there are many basic open questions concerning e.g. the influence of tip material, structure, and sample systems on the size, sign, and distance dependence of exchange forces. Successful interpretation approaches for both techniques rely on an accurate description of the electronic structure of tip and sample and their interaction making density functional theory (DFT) an indispensable tool. Here, I will present the theory of SP-STM and explain how one can reveal collinear and non-collinear magnetic order on the atomic scale [1-4]. This allows us to verify theoretical predictions based on DFT such as two-dimensional antiferromagnetism [1] or spin-spiral structures driven by the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction [3,4]. Surprisingly, it is even possible to image non-collinear atomic-scale magnetic order using a non-magnetic tip as the electronic structure changes slightly from atom to atom due to spin-orbit coupling. Finally, I will show how the antiferromagnetic order of Fe on W(001) can be resolved by MExFM and discuss how the structure and chemical composition of the tip influence the measured forces [6].
[1] A. Kubetzka et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 94, 087204 (2005) |
15:10 | R.Q. Wu | Determination of structural and magnetic properties of dilute magnetic semiconductors with x-ray magnetic circular dichroism
Determination of structural and magnetic properties of dilute magnetic semiconductors with x-ray magnetic circular dichroismRu-Qian Wu, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Irvine, CA, USAWe will report our recent findings that x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) spectra of 'nonmagnetic' atoms or the k-edge XMCD spectra of magnetic dopants strongly depend on the local atomic arrangement and can hence be used for the structural characterization for dilute magnetic semiconductors and their interfaces. As an example, we found that besides single Co ions on substitutional sites, there are also a large amount of interstitial Co atoms and pairs of Co-oxygen vacancy in the as-grown Co-doped ZnO sample. Comparisons between density functional results and experimental data for Mn-doped GaAs and Fe/GaAs(100) interfaces will also be discussed. |
15:50 | Coffee | |
16:10 | D. Zhang | Finite element method for solving Kohn-Sham equations based on self-adaptive tetrahedral mesh
Finite Element Method for Solving Kohn-Sham Equations Based on Self-adaptive Tetrahedral MeshDier Zhang, W.G. Gao, A.H. Zhou and X.G. Gong, Laboratory for Computational Physical Sciences, Ministry of Education, China, and Fudan University, ShanghaiWe have developed a parallel FE solver for the Kohn-Sham equation based on the combination of density functional theory and pseudopotential. FE method is a typical real-space method with strictly local basis function, it produces the sparsely structured Hamiltonian matrices, does not require Fourier transforms and well suits for parallel implementation. In addition, it is relatively straightforward for implementing adaptive refinement techniques to pay more attention to the regions where the computed functions vary rapidly, such as regions around atomic nuclei or chemical bonds. Therefore, the accuracy of the calculation can easily be improved by refining the mesh. We will show how the FE nodes can be distributed by fitting the error of the wave-functions, so-called self-adaptive refinement. The efficient eigenvalue solver for the large-scale sparse matrix in parallel calculation is another challenge. Conjugate gradient (CG) is a powerful method in electronic-structure calculation what benefits from the initial-vectors in SCF iteration. We found an effective preconditioner for the CG method especially in the un-regular FE mesh. |
16:50 | R. Zeller | Methodology and capabilities of the KKR Green function method
Methodology and capabilities of the KKR Green function methodRudolf Zeller, Institut für Festkörperforschung, Forschungszentrum JülichAn introduction is given to the full-potential Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker Green function method, in particular to the version which has been developed in Jülich for density functional calculations of bulk systems, surfaces and impurity atoms in bulk systems and at surfaces. The conceptual difference of the KKR Green function method compared to the standard basis set approach is discussed and it is shown that lattice constants and bulk moduli for metals and semiconductors and forces and displacements in crystals perturbed by impurities can be determined in very good agreement with full-potential linear augmented plane-wave (FLAPW) and plane-wave pseudo-potential calculations. A transformation into a tight-binding (TB) form (essentially Andersen's screened KKR method) is explained which leads to linear-scaling computational effort for layered systems like slabs, surfaces, interfaces and semi-infinite crystals and which can be used for bulk systems with thousands of atoms if the KKR matrix equations are solved by iteration. |
17:30 | W.N. E | Recent progress on linear scaling methods for electronic structure analysis
Recent progress on linear scaling methods for electronic structure analysisWeinan E, Princeton University and Peking UniversityThe speaker will review some of the recent progress both on developing and on understanding linear scaling methods for electronic structure analysis. In the first half of the talk, the focus will be on subspace iteration algorithms for insulators. In the second half of the talk, the focus will be on metallic systems. |
18:10 | Discussions & Dinner | |
Thursday, 24 September | ||
9:00 | G. Bihlmayer | Unique magnetic spiral structures in low dimensions
Unique magnetic spiral structures in low dimensionsGustav Bihlmayer, Institute for Advanced Simulation and Institut für Festkörperforschung, Forschungszentrum JülichMagnetic nanostructures are often complex, multicomposite materials with low symmetry, non-collinearity and strong spin-orbit coupling effects. In the last years we could establish first-principles methods to describe accurately the underlying magnetic interactions, i.e. the symmetric and antisymmetric exchange, the magnetocrystalline anisotropy and their dependence on dimensionality and structure in realistic materials. This talk will focus on low-dimensional magnetic systems and the importance of relativistic effects for the magnetic properties: due to the lack of inversion symmetry at the surface, the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction can induce non-collinear spin structures of a particular rotational sense in ultrathin magnetic films. Different computational aspects within the context of the full-potential linear augmented plane-wave (FLAPW) method will be presented [1]. As applications three examples will be discussed, domain walls in two monolayers Fe on W(110) [2], an antiferromagnetic monolayer Mn of W(110) [3], and the ferromagnetic Mn on W(100) [4].
[1] M. Heide, G. Bihlmayer, and S. Blügel, Physica B 404, 2678 (2009) |
9:40 | J.M. Dong | Spin-orbit coupling in carbon-based nanostructured materials
Spin-orbit coupling in carbon-based nanostructured materialsJian Zhou1,3, Qifeng Liang3, and Jinming Dong2,3
|
10:20 | Z.P. Liu | Electrocatalysis: going to atomic level
Electrocatalysis: going to atomic levelZhi-Pan Liu, Laboratory for the Computational Physical Sciences, Ministry of Education, and Department of Chemistry, Fudan UniversityIn this talk, I will introduce some general background of electrocatalysis and the current difficulty in theoretical simulation. Some of the recent theoretical development in the world and our group will be presented. Based on our recent studies on fuel cell applications, the factors affecting the electrocatalytic kinetics will be summarized. We suggest that the electrical potential itself is not the key factor that directly affects the reaction barrier of surface reactions. Instead, the surface coverage and the morphology can be much more important.
H.F. Wang and Z.P. Liu,
J. Am. Chem. Soc. 130, 10996 (2008) |
11:00 | Coffee | |
11:20 | D.J. Shu | First principles calculation of the vacancy formation on TiO2 surfaces
First principle calculation on the vacancy formation on TiO2 surfaceDa-Jun Shu, Mu Wang, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures and Department of Physics, Nanjing UniversityThe most common defects on surfaces of transition metal oxides are oxygen vacancies, which play critical roles in applications such as heterogeneous catalysis, photoelectrolysis, biocompatibility, etc.. If the nature and distribution of the oxygen vacancies can be controlled, the surface properties will then be modified for different applications. For this purpose, one needs to understand both the influence of oxygen vacancies on the surface properties and the responses of oxygen vacancies to different external fields. We have conducted comprehensive first principles calculations on the surface energy of strained rutile TiO2(110) with oxygen vacancies. The formation energy of each type of oxygen vacancy is calculated as a function of external strain. We find that the type of the most easily formed oxygen vacancy can be tuned by the strain and therefore suggest that the distribution of oxygen vacancies can be engineered by external strain, which helps to improve the applications of TiO2 surface where oxygen vacancies play important roles. The dependence of surface elastic properties on the type of oxygen vacancy is found to be responsible for the interplay between external strain and oxygen vacancies. D.J. Shu, S.T. Ge, M. Wang and N.B. Ming, Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 116102 (2008) |
12:00 | X.G. Gong | Predictive modeling of novel structures and structural phase transitions in zero and one dimensions
Predictive Modeling of Novel Structures and Structural Phase Transitions in Zero and One DimensionsXin-Gao Gong, Laboratory for Computational Physical Sciences, Ministry of Education, and Department of Physics, Fudan University, ShanghaiNanostructured materials usually have different physical properties from their bulk phases and show strong dependence on size with well-defined scaling behavior. However, when the sizes become too small, deviations from such scaling properties may emerge, as illustrated in the present talk using a few intriguing examples of metal nanoclusters and nanowires. We show, based on first-principles calculations, that strong relativistic effects can make gold clusters to be cage-like, which is non-compact and similar to C60. Strong magnetic interaction can enhance the stability of layer-like structure of small Co clusters, similar to the fragment of bulk phase. For nanowires, we show how the size effect will lead to a peculiar cross-section that is in contrast with the prediction of the classic Wulff plot. I will also present examples illustrating how hydrostatic pressure induces structural transitions in nanoclusters and carbon nanotubes. |
12:40 | Closing Remarks & Lunchr | |
14:30 | visit Fudan University | |
Banquet, Yu-Yuan Garden | ||
boat trip through The Bund and Pudong | ||
Friday, 25 September | ||
Excursion to Su-Zhou |
Xingao Gong Department of Physics Fudan University, Shanghai |
Erik Koch Institut für Festkörperforschung Forschungszentrum Jülich |