Spin-current detector by a periodic array of quantum dots with Rashba Hamiltonian

Electron diffraction by a periodic array of quantum dots is studied using the Rashba Hamiltonian and a plane wave-based Green function method. A transverse charge current is found due to the asymmetric spatial diffraction of a spin-polarized electron injection. The spin-polarization of the forward electon current is maintained after passing through the array. Such an array can be used as a non-magnetic spin-current detector. Detailed results in terms of the parameters relevant to experimental design, such as the size of the quantum dots, strength of the spin-orbit coupling, are presented.