A new SUPERconducting LANDscape: using nanoscale inhomogeneity for enhanced superconductivity

Introduction

Superconductivity is a truly quantum mechanical phenomenon, strongly dependent on the zero-energy density of states (DOS). This project aims to create and enhance superconductivity using nanoscale inhomogeneity to produce large DOS peaks at zero energy, thereby creating an entirely new, spatial and figurative landscape for superconductivity.

Recent Examples

One recent example is twisted bilayer graphene, an all-carbon material that becomes superconducting due to a moiré structure producing large zero-energy DOS peaks.

Project Goals

In this project, we will:

1. Establish superconductivity driven entirely by nanoscale inhomogeneity generating zero-energy DOS peaks, including in moiré structures.
2. Use zero-energy DOS peaks to create a superconducting phase crystal in many different superconductors, generalizing findings from high-temperature cuprate superconductor surfaces.

Methodology

In the project, we will continue to develop our state-of-the-art computational tools to self-consistently study superconductivity in large inhomogeneous systems at the atomistic level.