On the interpretation of flux trapping experiments in hydrides

TL;DR

This paper critically examines flux trapping experiments in hydrides, arguing that observed magnetic signals are due to ferromagnetism rather than superconductivity, challenging previous interpretations of experimental data.

Contribution

It provides a reinterpretation of flux trapping measurements, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing ferromagnetic signals from superconducting ones in hydride experiments.

Findings

Measured signals likely originate from ferromagnetism, not superconductivity.

Flux trapping signals do not necessarily indicate superconductivity in hydrides.

Reevaluation of experimental evidence for superconductivity in hydrides.

Abstract

In Ref. [1], Minkov et al. reported measurements of the magnetic moment that remains after a magnetic field is turned on and then turned off for hydride materials under high pressure in a diamond anvil cell. In Refs. [2,3], Minkov et al. reported magnetization measurements on the same samples as a function of applied magnetic field. Here we argue that the latter indicate that the signal measured in the former does not provide evidence for superconductivity in these samples. Instead, the measured signal likely originates in ferromagnetism of either the sample or the background.