Microscopic theory of magnetic detwinning in iron-based superconductors with large-spin rare earths

Abstract

Detwinning of magnetic (nematic) domains in Fe-based superconductors has so far only been obtained through mechanical straining, which considerably perturbs the ground state of these materials. The recently discovered non-mechanical detwinning in EuFe${}_2$As${}_2$ by ultra-low magnetic fields offers an entirely different, non-perturbing way to achieve the same goal. However, this way seemed risky due to the lack of a microscopic understanding of the magnetically driven detwinning. Specifically, the following issues remained unexplained: (i) ultra-low value of the first detwinning field of $\sim$0.1T, two orders of magnitude below that of BaFe${}_2$As${}_2$, (ii) reversal of the preferential domain orientation at $\sim$1T, and restoration of the low-field orientation above 10$-$15T. In this paper, we present, using published as well as newly measured data, a full theory that quantitatively explains all the observations. The key ingredient of this theory is a biquadratic coupling between Fe and Eu spins, analogous to the Fe-Fe biquadratic coupling that drives the nematic transition in this family of materials.

Accepted for publication in Physical Review X