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Distinction between pristine and disorder-perturbed charge density waves in ZrTe3
Li Yue1, Shangjie Xue2, Jiarui Li2
1International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
Nature Communications
|January 9, 2020
Summary
Disorder influences charge density waves (CDWs) in superconductors. This study reveals distinct CDW behaviors in pristine versus disordered systems, offering insights into their formation mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Charge density waves (CDWs) are crucial in high-temperature superconductors, but their short-range nature and disorder effects remain debated.
- Understanding disorder's role is key to elucidating CDW phenomena and their impact on material properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of disorder on charge density waves (CDWs) in the model system ZrTe.
- To differentiate the experimental signatures of pristine and disorder-perturbed CDWs.
Main Methods:
- Resonant X-ray diffraction was employed to study ZrTe.
- Analysis focused on CDW behavior near the transition temperature and in the ordered state.
Main Results:
- Two independent CDW signals were observed near the transition temperature, separating in momentum at lower temperatures.
- Distinct correlation lengths emerged for these signals in the well-ordered state.
- Anomalously slow dynamics of mesoscopic charge domains were detected near the transition.
Conclusions:
- The study identifies unique experimental fingerprints for pristine and disorder-perturbed CDWs.
- Friedel oscillations may play a role in promoting CDW formation through a self-amplifying mechanism.
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