Multipolar Skyrmion Crystals in Non-Kramers Doublet Systems

Abstract: We study the Kondo lattice model of multipolar magnetic moments interacting with conduction electrons on a triangular lattice. Bond-dependent electron hoppings induce a compass-like anisotropy in the effective Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida interaction between multipolar moments. This unique anisotropy stabilizes multipolar skyrmion crystals at zero magnetic field. In a unit cell, the skyrmion fractionalizes into meron composites subject to the conservation of total topological charge. Diverse multipolar phases in the phase diagram give rise to novel spontaneous Hall response of conduction electrons.