Ta4CoSi: a Tantalum-rich superconductor with a honeycomb network structure

TL;DR

This paper reports the discovery and analysis of a new tantalum-rich superconductor, Ta4CoSi, with a honeycomb lattice structure that influences its superconducting properties, offering a new platform for studying exotic superconductivity.

Contribution

It introduces a previously unknown compound, Ta4CoSi, with a unique honeycomb lattice structure and characterizes its superconducting properties through experiments and theoretical calculations.

Findings

Superconducts below 2.45 K

Honeycomb Ta-Ta networks influence superconductivity

Potential for exploring exotic superconducting states

Abstract

The crystal structure of solid-state materials with unique lattices is considered one of the main factors determining physical properties, including superconductivity. Materials with honeycomb lattices have inspired intense research interest for their novel properties. A previously unknown compound, Ta4CoSi, are discussed herein and its crystal structure and superconducting properties. It crystallizes in a CuAl2-type structure (space group P4/mcm, No. 124) with the lattice parameters a = b = 6.17755(7){\AA} and c = 4.98443(8) {\AA}, featuring honeycomb networks of Ta-Ta in (110) plane. Superconductivity is observed below the critical temperature of 2.45 K, while lower and upper critical magnetic fields are 9.86 mT and 0.84 T, respectively. Experiments and theoretical calculations show that the honeycomb lattices significantly influence the superconducting properties. This material may thus provide a new platform for investigating the exotic superconductivity of honeycomb networks.