Spin-dependent Andreev reflection in a three-terminal Aharonov-Bohm interferometer with coherent indirect coupling

Within the framework of non-equilibrium Green’s functions, we investigate the spin-dependent Andreev reflection (AR) in a three-terminal Aharonov-Bohm interferometer with double quantum dot, taking account of the coherent indirect coupling via the superconducting reservoir. It is found that the time-reversal symmetry is broken by the crossed Andreev reflection (CAR) process, and moreover that the spin-value effect of the linear conductance, the spin-polarised AR current, and a pure spin current can be generated by means of the normal AR and the CAR. Expressions for the AR conductances (the transport coefficients) governing the AR properties of this system are derived analytically. The effect of the coherent indirect coupling on the conductance, the Andreev reflected tunneling magnetoresistance (ARTMR), and the spin-related current in the presence of the AR are amply analyzed. Our results indicate that the optimal properties of this system can be realised by tuning the external parameters. Copyright EDP Sciences, SIF, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013