Scattering and Pairing in Cuprate Superconductors

TL;DR

This paper explores the relationship between anomalous normal-state scattering, linear resistivity, and high-temperature superconductivity in cuprates, suggesting a common underlying magnetic fluctuation mechanism across different superconductor families.

Contribution

It proposes a unified perspective linking scattering and pairing in cuprates to magnetic fluctuations, drawing parallels with organic and pnictide superconductors.

Findings

Superconducting onset temperature scales with normal-state scattering strength.

Linear resistivity correlates with Tc across different superconductor families.

Pseudogap phase may involve spin-density-wave order and fluctuations.

Abstract

The origin of the exceptionally strong superconductivity of cuprates remains a subject of debate after more than two decades of investigation. Here we follow a new lead: The onset temperature for superconductivity scales with the strength of the anomalous normal-state scattering that makes the resistivity linear in temperature. The same correlation between linear resistivity and Tc is found in organic superconductors, for which pairing is known to come from fluctuations of a nearby antiferromagnetic phase, and in pnictide superconductors, for which an antiferromagnetic scenario is also likely. In the cuprates, the question is whether the pseudogap phase plays the corresponding role, with its fluctuations responsible for pairing and scattering. We review recent studies that shed light on this phase - its boundary, its quantum critical point, and its broken symmetries. The emerging picture is that of a phase with spin-density-wave order and fluctuations, in broad analogy with organic, pnictide, and heavy-fermion superconductors.