A peak in the critical current for quantum critical superconductors

TL;DR

This study reveals a peak in the critical current at a hidden quantum critical point in Ce-based superconductors, linking quantum critical fluctuations to enhanced superconducting properties.

Contribution

It demonstrates that the zero-field critical current peak is governed by critical fluctuations near a hidden quantum critical point in strongly correlated superconductors.

Findings

Critical current peaks at the quantum critical point under pressure.

Universal temperature dependence of Ic(0) in Ce-based compounds.

Minimum dc conductivity correlates inversely with Ic(0).

Abstract

Generally, studies of the critical current Ic are necessary if superconductors are to be of practical use because Ic sets the current limit below which there is a zero-resistance state. Here, we report a peak in the pressure dependence of the zero-field Ic, Ic(0), at a hidden quantum critical point (QCP), where a continuous antiferromagnetic transition temperature is suppressed by pressure toward 0 K in CeRhIn5 and 4.4% Sn-doped CeRhIn5. The Ic(0)s of these Ce-based compounds under pressure exhibit a universal temperature dependence, underlining that the peak in zero-field Ic(P) is determined predominantly by critical fluctuations associated with the hidden QCP. The dc conductivity is a minimum at the QCP, showing anti-correlation with Ic(0). These discoveries demonstrate that a quantum critical point hidden inside the superconducting phase in strongly correlated materials can be exposed by the zero-field Ic, therefore providing a direct link between a QCP and unconventional superconductivity.