Development of Cu-spin correlation in Bi_1.74_Pb_0.38_Sr_1.88_Cu_1-y_Zn_y_O_6+d_ high-temperature superconductors observed by muon spin relaxation

TL;DR

This study reveals that Cu-spin correlations develop at low temperatures in Bi-2201 high-Tc cuprates and are influenced by hole concentration and Zn substitution, suggesting a universal link between spin-charge stripe correlations and superconductivity.

Contribution

First systematic muon-spin-relaxation investigation showing Cu-spin correlation development across a wide doping range in Bi-2201 cuprates, highlighting its relation to superconductivity.

Findings

Cu-spin correlation develops below 2 K in Bi-2201 cuprates.

CSC weakens with increasing hole concentration.

Zn substitution enhances CSC, even in non-superconducting samples.

Abstract

A systematic muon-spin-relaxation study in Bi-2201 high-Tc cuprates has revealed for the first time that the Cu-spin correlation (CSC) is developed at low temperatures below 2 K in a wide range of hole concentration where superconductivity appears. The CSC tends to become weak gradually with increasing hole-concentration. Moreover, CSC has been enhanced through the 3% substitution of Zn for Cu. These results are quite similar to those observed in La-214 high-Tc cuprates. Accordingly, it has been suggested that the intimate relation between the so-called spin-charge stripe correlations and superconductivity is a universal feature in hole-doped high-Tc cuprates. Furthermore, apparent development of CSC, which is suppressed through the Zn substitution oppositely, has been observed in non-superconducting heavily overdoped samples, being argued in the context of a recently proposed ferromagnetic state in heavily overdoped cuprates.