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Updated: Apr 11, 2026
12:20
Sputter Growth and Characterization of Metamagnetic B2-ordered FeRh Epilayers
Published on: October 5, 2013
15.2K
Distinct vortex-glass phases in Yb₃Rh₄Sn₁₃ at high and low magnetic fields
D G Mazzone1, J L Gavilano, R Sibille
1Laboratory for Neutron Scattering and Imaging, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland.
Summary
Researchers studied the vortex lattice in Yb3Rh4Sn13 superconductors using small-angle neutron scattering. They identified two vortex-glass phases, indicating a disorder-induced transition and changes in vortex lattice structure at specific magnetic fields.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Superconductivity
- Materials Science
Background:
- The mixed state of superconductors exhibits a vortex lattice (VL).
- Understanding the behavior of the VL under varying magnetic fields is crucial for superconductor applications.
- Yb3Rh4Sn13 is a stannide superconductor with potential for novel electronic properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the vortex lattice (VL) structure and phase transitions in the superconductor Yb3Rh4Sn13.
- To identify the nature of magnetic field-induced anomalies in the VL.
- To explore the conditions leading to vortex-glass phases.
Main Methods:
- Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) was employed to probe the VL.
- Field dependences of normalized longitudinal and transverse correlation lengths (ξ(L)/a0 and ξ(T)/a0) were measured.
- Elastic moduli (c66 and c44) were analyzed to determine phase transitions.
Main Results:
- Two distinct anomalies associated with vortex-glass phases were observed at critical fields μ0Hl ≈ 700 G and μ0Hh ∼ 1.7 T.
- A disorder-induced transition into a vortex-glass state was evidenced by the vanishing of elastic moduli at μ0Hl.
- A unique 'ring' of scattered intensity was observed at low fields (μ0Hc1 < μ0H < 700 G), distinct from high-field phenomena.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals two distinct vortex-glass phases in Yb3Rh4Sn13, driven by magnetic field.
- The vortex lattice undergoes significant structural changes and transitions, including a disorder-induced vortex-glass state.
- Low-field and high-field phenomena exhibit different characteristics, suggesting complex vortex dynamics in this superconductor.
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