Inner and outer edge states in graphene rings: A numerical investigation

Abstract

We numerically investigate quantum rings in graphene and find that their electronic properties may be strongly influenced by the geometry, the edge symmetries, and the structure of the corners. Energy spectra are calculated for different geometries (triangular, hexagonal, and rhombus-shaped graphene rings) and edge terminations (zigzag, armchair, as well as the disordered edge of a round geometry). The states localized at the inner edges of the graphene rings describe different evolution as a function of magnetic field when compared to those localized at the outer edges. We show that these different evolutions are the reason for the formation of subbands of edge-states energy levels, separated by gaps (anticrossings). It is evident from mapping the charge densities that the anticrossings occur due to the coupling between inner and outer edge states.