Quantum paramagnet in a π flux triangular lattice Hubbard model

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We propose the π flux triangular lattice Hubbard model (π-THM) as a prototypical setup to stabilize magnetically disordered quantum states of matter in the presence of charge fluctuations. The quantum paramagnetic domain of the π-THM which we identify for intermediate Hubbard U is framed by a Dirac semi-metal for weak coupling and by 120∘ Néel order for strong coupling. Generalizing the Klein duality from spin Hamiltonians to tight-binding models, the π-THM maps to a Hubbard model which corresponds to the (Jₕ, Jₖ)=(-1,2) Heisenberg-Kitaev model in its strong coupling limit. The π-THM provides a promising microscopic testing ground for exotic finite-U spin liquid ground states amenable to numerical investigation.