Phase diagrams of vortex matter with multi-scale inter-vortex interactions in layered superconductors

TL;DR

This paper explores complex vortex matter phase diagrams in layered superconductors with multi-scale interactions, revealing diverse phases that can be controlled by external fields, with implications for quantum emulation.

Contribution

It introduces new phase diagrams for vortex states in layered superconductors with multi-scale interactions, expanding understanding of possible vortex configurations.

Findings

Multiple vortex phases including lattice, stripe, dimer, trimer, tetramer, and void phases.

Transitions between phases are controllable via external magnetic field.

Identification of stable low-temperature disordered phases.

Abstract

It was recently proposed to use the stray magnetic fields of superconducting vortex lattices to trap ultracold atoms for building quantum emulators. This calls for new methods for engineering and manipulating of the vortex states. One of the possible routes utilizes type-1.5 superconducting layered systems with multi-scale inter-vortex interactions. In order to explore the possible vortex states that can be engineered, we present two phase diagrams of phenomenological vortex matter models with multi-scale inter-vortex interactions featuring several attractive and repulsive length scales. The phase diagrams exhibit a plethora of phases, including conventional 2D lattice phases, five stripe phases, dimer, trimer, and tetramer phases, void phases, and stable low-temperature disordered phases. The transitions between these states can be controlled by the value of an applied external field.