Colossal anisotropy in diluted magnetic topological insulators

We consider dilute magnetic doping in the surface of a three dimensional topological insulator where a two dimensional Dirac electron gas resides. We find that exchange coupling between magnetic atoms and the Dirac electrons has a strong and peculiar effect on both. First, the exchange-induced single ion magnetic anisotropy is very large and favors off-plane orientation. In the case of a ferromagnetically ordered phase, we find a colossal magnetic anisotropy energy, of the order of the critical temperature. Second, a persistent electronic current circulates around the magnetic atom and, in the case of a ferromagnetic phase, around the edges of the surface.

► We model dilute magnetic doping in the surface of a three dimensional topological insulator. ► We find large exchange-induced single ion magnetic anisotropy. ► The magnetic anisotropy and the energy gain due to magnetic order are the same. ► Magnetic dopants induce in-plane charge currents.