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Two-Dimensional Superconducting Diode Effect in Topological Insulator/Superconductor Heterostructure.
Soma Nagahama1, Yuki Sato2, Minoru Kawamura2
1The University of Tokyo, Department of Applied Physics and Quantum-Phase Electronics Center (QPEC), Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
Physical Review Letters
|January 2, 2026
Summary
We observed the superconducting diode effect (SDE) in a 2D topological insulator/superconductor heterostructure. This breakthrough demonstrates nonreciprocal Cooper-pair motion in 2D systems, driven by vortex dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Quantum Phenomena
Background:
- The superconducting diode effect (SDE) shows nonreciprocal Cooper-pair motion, observable as directional critical current variations in 3D materials.
- Manifesting SDE in 2D materials is challenging due to a theoretically zero critical current density.
Purpose of the Study:
- To observe and characterize the superconducting diode effect in a 2D topological insulator/superconductor heterostructure.
- To investigate the role of vortex dynamics in 2D SDE.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a heterostructure using topological insulator Bi_{2}Te_{3} and iron-based superconductor Fe(Se,Te).
- Measurement of current-voltage (I-V) characteristics to identify nonreciprocity.
- Analysis of vortex-creep and vortex-flow instability phenomena.
Main Results:
- Observation of SDE in a 2D superconducting system, specifically in the vortex-creep regime.
- Nonreciprocal I-V characteristics with finite voltages arising from 2D superconductivity.
- Abrupt voltage jumps influenced by current and magnetic field direction, indicative of vortex-flow instability.
Conclusions:
- Vortex dynamics play a crucial role in enabling the superconducting diode effect in 2D systems.
- The study provides insights into symmetry breaking and dimensionality in topological insulator/superconductor interfaces.
- This work paves the way for exploring SDE in other 2D material systems.
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