Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 1, 2026
04:51
Comparison of Two Different Synthesis Methods of Single Crystals of Superconducting Uranium Ditelluride
Published on: July 8, 2021
3.2K
Odd-frequency superconductivity induced in topological insulators with and without hexagonal warping.
A S Vasenko1, A A Golubov2,3, V M Silkin4,5,6
1National Research University Higher School of Economics, 101000 Moscow, Russia.
Summary
We investigated how Fermi surface anisotropy impacts odd-frequency pairing in superconductor/ferromagnetic insulator structures on topological insulators. Proper boundary alignment is crucial for observing Majorana bound states.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Quantum Phenomena
Background:
- Superconductor/ferromagnetic insulator (S/FI) hybrid structures on 3D topological insulators (TI) offer a platform for exotic quantum states.
- Odd-frequency pairing is a theoretically predicted phenomenon with potential applications in quantum computing.
- Topological surface states in TIs exhibit unique electronic properties, including anisotropic Fermi surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the influence of Fermi surface anisotropy on odd-frequency spin-triplet pairing.
- To determine the conditions necessary for the emergence of Majorana bound states in S/FI/TI hybrid systems.
- To establish a selection rule for realizing Majorana modes.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical modeling of S/FI hybrid structures on TI surfaces.
- Analysis of the induced pair potential and its odd-frequency component.
- Investigating the role of anisotropic Dirac point energy contours (snowflake shape).
Main Results:
- Fermi surface anisotropy significantly affects the odd-frequency pairing component.
- A specific alignment between the S/FI boundary and the snowflake energy contour is required for odd-frequency symmetry.
- Majorana bound states are predicted to exist only for this specific boundary alignment.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a critical selection rule for the experimental realization of Majorana modes in S/FI/TI hybrid structures.
- Precise control over the S/FI boundary orientation relative to the TI Fermi surface anisotropy is essential.
- This work advances the understanding of topological superconductivity and Majorana physics.
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