Resolving weak moments in canted antiferromagnets via time-domain terahertz emission spectroscopy.

Sha, Xuyang; Guan, Tongyang; Wang, Zhen; Li, Zhengkun; Wang, Shunjia; Li, Zhangshun; Huang, Chen; Jin, Zuanming et al. · Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · 2026

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Canted antiferromagnets host weak net magnetization arising from spin canting while preserving the ultrafast response of antiferromagnetic order. Probing such minute moments-especially in thin films-remains challenging, as conventional magneto-optical and electrical techniques lack sufficient sensitivity. Here, we employ time-domain terahertz emission spectroscopy as a contact-free probe of such weak magnetism. Using epitaxial TmFeO<sub>3</sub>/Pt heterostructures as a model system, the emitted THz signal directly follows the orientation of the canted Fe<sup>3+</sup> moment, allowing real-time tracking of its continuous rotation through the spin reorientation transition. Moreover, the THz hysteresis polarity is reversed compared with conventional ferromagnet/Pt systems, indicating an unconventional interfacial magnetic configuration. Our findings establish THz emission spectroscopy as a powerful tool for resolving ultrafast THz emission response in canted antiferromagnetic thin and ultrathin films.