Electron-hole pairing in topological insulator thin film

D. K. Efimkin, Yu. E. Lozovik, A. A. Sokolik

Published 2012-07-07, updated 2012-09-01Version 3

We consider pairing of massless Dirac electrons and holes located on opposite surfaces of thin film of "strong" three-dimensional topological insulator. Such pairing was predicted to give rise to topological exciton condensate with unusual properties. We estimate quantitatively achievable critical temperature of the pairing with taking into account self-consistent screening of the Coulomb interaction, disorder and hybridization of electron and hole states caused by a tunneling through the film. Increase of the gap above the hybridization value when the temperature is lowered can be observable signature of the pairing. System parameters required to observe the electron-hole pairing are discussed.