Spin-orbit interaction controlled properties of two-dimensional superlattices: Spintronic crystals

The band structure of two-dimensional artificial superlattices in the presence of (Rashba-type) spin-orbit interaction (SOI) is presented. The position and shape of the energy bands in these spintronic crystals depend on the geometry as well as the strength of the SOI, which can be tuned by external gate voltages. For finite mesoscopic arrays we show that their conductance properties can be understood from these spin-dependent band diagrams.