Vortex core ordering in Abrikosov lattices

TL;DR

This paper investigates how competing charge density wave order within vortex cores affects vortex lattice properties, revealing a stable supersolid phase and complex phase transitions using mean-field simulations of the attractive Hubbard model.

Contribution

It introduces a detailed study of vortex core ordering effects on vortex lattice stability and phase transitions, highlighting the emergence of a supersolid phase and domain wall phenomena.

Findings

Identification of a stable supersolid phase with coexisting superfluid and charge order.

Discovery of domain walls separating different charge order regions within vortex cores.

Evidence of phase transitions from vortex lattice to charge-ordered or incoherent states.

Abstract

Vortex lattices, arising from repulsive inter-vortex interactions, are a canonical example of emergent phenomena. Recent studies on the cuprates have drawn attention to the appearance of competing correlations within vortex cores. This gives internal structure to each vortex and changes the nature of inter-vortex interactions, especially at short range. This can have significant consequences for vortex lattices wherein vortices are in close proximity to one another. We consider the attractive Hubbard model, a prototypical model for phase competition, with checkerboard charge density wave order appearing in vortex cores. We use next-nearest-neighbour hopping, $t'$, to tune the strength of competing order in the core. Using Bogoliubov deGennes mean field simulations, we study the variation in quasiparticle gap, superfluid stiffness and shear stiffness, as the core order is tuned. The presence of competing order allows for a new defect: domain walls that separate regions with different types of charge order overlying the vortex-laden superfluid background. We find the energy cost of such domain walls. Our results indicate a stable intermediate supersolid region with coexisting superfluid and charge orders. At one end, this phase is unstable to melting of the vortex lattice into a purely charge ordered state, possibly via an intervening liquid-like state. At the other end, charge order becomes incoherent due to domain formation while superconducting order persists.