Multiple quantum phase transitions in a heavy fermion antiferromagnet

TL;DR

This study investigates multiple quantum phase transitions in the heavy fermion antiferromagnet CeRhIn_5, revealing Fermi surface reconstructions and suggesting a universal framework for quantum critical points that may enhance unconventional superconductivity.

Contribution

It provides experimental evidence of multiple classes of quantum critical points and Fermi surface changes in CeRhIn_5, advancing understanding of quantum criticality in heavy fermion systems.

Findings

Fermi surface reconstruction at the antiferromagnetic QCP

Multiple classes of quantum critical points identified

Implications for unconventional superconductivity

Abstract

We report measurements of magnetic quantum oscillations and specific heat at low temperatures across a field-induced antiferromagnetic quantum critical point (QCP)(B_{c0}\approx50T) of the heavy-fermion metal CeRhIn_5. A sharp magnetic-field induced Fermi surface reconstruction is observed inside the antiferromagnetic phase. Our results demonstrate multiple classes of QCPs in the field-pressure phase diagram of this heavy-fermion metal, pointing to a universal description of QCPs. They also suggest that robust superconductivity is promoted by unconventional quantum criticality of a fluctuating Fermi surface.