Superexchange blockade in triple quantum dots

Abstract

We propose the interaction of two electrons in a triple quantum dot as a minimal system to control long-range superexchange transitions. These are probed by transport spectroscopy. Narrow resonances appear indicating the transfer of charge from one side of the sample to the other with the central one being occupied only virtually. We predict that two different intermediate states establish the two arms of a one-dimensional interferometer. We find configurations where destructive interference of the two superexchange trajectories totally blocks the current through the system. We emphasize the role of spin correlations giving rise to lifetime-enhanced resonances.