Spin splitting in graphene nanoribbons under non-uniform strain

We investigate spin splitting in zigzag graphene nanoribbons (ZGNRs) under non-uniform uniaxial strains. The non-uniform strain can be achieved by applying positive strain to one half of the ZGNR and negative strain to the other half. The non-uniform uniaxial strain induces asymmetric local magnetic moments to the ZGNR, resulting in spin splitting. Moreover, the magnitude of the splitting can be controlled by the strength and smoothness of the strain, with the maximum energy interval for conducting spin-resolved electrons reaching 350 meV. Our findings provide a clear model and strategy for achieving spin-polarized current, which can aid in the development of controllable graphene-based spintronics devices.