Prediction of triple point fermions in simple half-Heusler topological insulators

Abstract

We predict the existence of triple point fermions in the band structure of several half-Heusler topological insulators by $abinitio$ calculations and the Kane model. We find that many half-Heusler compounds exhibit multiple triple points along four independent $C_3$ axes, through which the doubly degenerate conduction bands and the nondegenerate valence band cross each other linearly nearby the Fermi energy. When projected from the bulk to the (111) surface, most of these triple points are located far away from the surface $\bar{\Gamma }$ point, as distinct from previously reported triple point fermion candidates. These isolated triple points give rise to Fermi arcs on the surface, that can be readily detected by photoemission spectroscopy or scanning tunneling spectroscopy.

6 pages, 3 figures. The supplementary information is attached in the latex package

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• Tuning the topological character of half-Heusler systems: A comparative study on Y$T$Bi ($T$ = Pd, Pt)
• Transport evidence of triply degenerate nodal semimetal YRh6Ge4
• Exchange gap in GdPtBi probed by magneto-optics
• Anomalous magnetic transport and extra quantum oscillation in semi-metallic photon-like fermion gas
• Triply-degenerate point in three-dimensional spinless systems