We propose and theoretically demonstrate a platform for realizing both the axion insulator and quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) phases. This platform is a Bi₂Se₃-based topological insulator film that is confined between two out-of-plane magnetized films of MnBi₂Se₄ and CrBi₂Se₄. Our first-principles calculations show that this design induces substantial splitting of the topological surface states which facilitates the realization of axion and QAH phases at elevated temperatures. This work establishes a tunable material platform for probing the interplay between distinct topological magnetic phases and for exploiting their exotic properties in next-generation devices.
Menshchikova et al. (Fri,) studied this question.