Triple-q state vs zigzag state: magnetic ground state determination of Na2Co2TeO6

Na2Co2TeO6 was theoretically proposed as a candidate material for the Kitaev quantum spin liquid (KQSL) and was found experimentally to exhibit resemblances to previous Kitaev materials. However, it develops antiferromagnetic order at low temperature and magnetic ground state remains controversial. To better understand magnetic interactions and tunability towards KQSL, we propose a diffraction experiment to distinguish between two ambiguous states (triple-q and zigzag states). As diffraction patterns of proposed ground states are identical, diffraction experiment with uniaxial strain is required using distinct responses to the strain expected for zigzag and triple-q states. In the case of successful realization of our experimental program, the puzzle of magnetic ground state of Na2 Co2TeO6 will be resolved, establishing a solid foundation for further understanding of the magnetic interactions in this material and its tunability towards KQSL.