Previous works on deformed graphene predict the existence of valley-polarized states, however, optimal conditions for their detection remain challenging. We show that in the quantum Hall regime, edgelike states in strained regions can be isolated in energy within Landau gaps. We identify precise conditions for conducting edgelike states to be valley polarized. By the appropriate design of strain profiles these states can be positioned at chosen locations in the sample. A map of the local density of states as a function of energy and position reveals a unique braid pattern that serves as a fingerprint to identify valley polarization.

• Received 24 September 2019
• Revised 23 December 2019
• Accepted 3 February 2020

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.101.081410