Quantum criticality and the formation of a putative electronic liquid crystal in Sr3Ru2O7

TL;DR

This paper reviews the physical properties of Sr3Ru2O7 near a magnetic-field-tuned quantum critical point, highlighting the emergence of a nematic electronic liquid crystal phase and discussing experimental and theoretical insights.

Contribution

It summarizes key experiments and theoretical approaches that suggest the formation of a nematic phase in Sr3Ru2O7, advancing understanding of quantum criticality and electronic liquid crystals.

Findings

Identification of a nematic electronic liquid crystal phase

Transport properties consistent with nematic order

Discussion of unresolved phenomena and future challenges

Abstract

We present a brief review of the physical properties of Sr3Ru2O7, in which the approach to a magnetic-field-tuned quantum critical point is cut off by the formation of a novel phase with transport characteristics consistent with those of a nematic electronic liquid crystal. Our goal is to summarize the physics that led to that conclusion being drawn, describing the key experiments and discussing the theoretical approaches that have been adopted. Throughout the review we also attempt to highlight observations that are not yet understood, and to discuss the future challenges that will need to be addressed by both experiment and theory.