Quantum states and vortex patterns in nanosuperconductors

• Published in: Annalen der Physik 2013-12, Vol.525 (12), p.951-956
• Main Authors: Deloof, Bart, Moshchalkov, Victor V., Chibotaru, Liviu F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bogolubov-de Gennes theory; Fluid flow; nanoscale superconductors; Nanotechnology; Quantum physics; Superconductors; vortex patterns; Vortices
• ISSN: 0003-3804; 1521-3889
• DOI: 10.1002/andp.201300111

The quanum levels and corresponding vortex states in nanoscale superconductors are investigated within generalized Bogolubov‐de Gennes theory. For symmetric (square‐shaped) samples thermodynamically stable vortex phases form symmetry‐consistent patterns and no transition to conventional Abrikosov‐like vortex patterns occurs till T=0K for sizes not exceeding 25 nm. For vorticity L=2 a giant vortex is stabilized at temperatures in the vicinity of Tc, which transforms into a giant antivortex L=−2 and four normal vortices with lowering the temperature. On the other hand, the vortex pattern for vorticity L=3 corresponds to an antivortex L=−1 and four normal vortices in the whole temperature domain. The quanum levels and corresponding vortex states in nanoscale superconductors are investigated within generalized Bogolubov‐de Gennes theory. For symmetric (square‐shaped) samples thermodynamically stable vortex phases form symmetry‐consistent patterns and no transition to conventional Abrikosov‐like vortex patterns occurs till T=0K for sizes not exceeding 25 nm. For vorticity L = 2 a giant vortex is stabilized at temperatures in the vicinity of Tc, which transforms into a giant antivortex L = −2 and four normal vortices with lowering the temperature. On the other hand, the vortex pattern for vorticity L = 3 corresponds to an antivortex L = −1 and four normal vortices in the whole temperature domain.