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Disorder-driven quantum phase transitions in superconductors and magnets
1Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
Physical Review Letters
|September 28, 2010
Summary
We developed a theory for quantum phase transitions in disordered magnets and superconductors. Increasing disorder reveals three phases, including two novel disordered states with unique transport properties.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Quantum Materials Science
Background:
- Low-temperature ferromagnets and superconductors exhibit complex quantum phase transitions.
- Disorder plays a crucial role in modifying the properties of these quantum materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an analytical theory for quantum phase transitions in strongly disordered ferromagnets and superconductors.
- To investigate the impact of increasing disorder on the phase diagram and transport properties.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the quantum cavity method for theoretical analysis.
- Describing quantum phase transitions and critical points.
Main Results:
- A novel phase diagram with two critical points, separating three distinct phases.
- Identification of an intermediate disordered phase with activated transport.
- Discovery of a second disordered phase exhibiting no transport.
- Observation of strong inhomogeneity in both ordered and disordered phases, characteristic of glassy physics.
Conclusions:
- The developed theory provides a new framework for understanding quantum phase transitions in disordered systems.
- Disorder-induced phase transitions lead to unique electronic states with non-trivial transport behaviors.
- The findings highlight the prevalence of glassy physics in strongly disordered quantum materials.
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