Anisotropic superconductivity induced by periodic multiferroic domain patterns
Journal
NPG Asia Materials
Journal Volume
11
Journal Issue
1
Date Issued
2019
Author(s)
Abstract
The competition between order parameters, such as ferroelectricity, ferromagnetism, and superconductivity, is one of the most fascinating topics in condensed matter physics. Here, we report intriguing anisotropic superconductivity in YBa2Cu3O7 ? x films induced by a multiferroic, BiFeO3, with periodic domain patterns. The anisotropic superconductivity was investigated by transport measurements and supported by phase-field simulations, and then the detailed local electronic structures were revealed by cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy. We found that the oxygen redistribution in YBa2Cu3O7 ? x modulated by the ferroelectric polarization in BiFeO3 was the key mechanism driving this anisotropic superconductivity. The presented heteroarchitecture of a high-temperature superconductor and a domain-engineered multiferroic provides a new approach to tune superconductivity and offers potential advantages for the design of future multifunctional devices. ? 2019, The Author(s).
Subjects
Anisotropy; Barium compounds; Bismuth compounds; Copper compounds; Electronic structure; Ferroelectricity; Iron compounds; Scanning tunneling microscopy; Yttrium barium copper oxides; Anisotropic superconductivity; Cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopies; Ferroelectric polarization; Local electronic structures; Multifunctional devices; Periodic domains; Phase-field simulation; Transport measurements; Iron-based Superconductors
Type
journal article