Flat Topological Nodal Lines in Heavy-Fermion Compound CeCoGe$_3$

TL;DR

This study reveals flat topological nodal lines near the Fermi level in the heavy fermion compound CeCoGe$_3$, highlighting its potential as a topological Kondo semimetal and candidate for topological superconductivity.

Contribution

First detailed theoretical investigation combining DFT and DMFT to identify topological nodal lines in CeCoGe$_3$, linking strong correlations with topological features.

Findings

Mass enhancement of quasiparticles by a factor of 52.6 at 25 K.

Identification of flat topological nodal lines within 10 meV of the Fermi level.

Potential role of topological nodal lines in mediating pressure-induced superconductivity.

Abstract

The interplay between strong electronic correlations, unconventional superconductivity, and symmetry-protected topology provides a fertile ground for discovering exotic quantum states. In this work, we investigate the correlated electronic structure and topological properties of the heavy fermion material CeCoGe$_3$ using density functional theory combined with dynamical mean-field theory calculations. Our results reveal a crossover from high temperature incoherent states to low temperature coherent heavy quasiparticles, accompanied by a mass enhancement of $m^*/m_{\text{DFT}}\sim 52.6$ at $T=25$ K. The interplay between electronic correlation, spin-orbit coupling and the noncentrosymmetric $I4mm$ crystal symmetry stabilize flat topological nodal lines within 10 meV of the Fermi level, which could contribute a significant density of states. The proximity of topological nodal lines to the Fermi surface suggests a potential role in mediating pressure induced unconventional superconductivity. Our work establishes CeCoGe$_3$ as a prototype topological nodal line Kondo semimetal. The coexistence of strong correlation, non-trivial band topology and superconductivity indicate CeCoGe$_3$ as a potential candidate for realizing topological superconductivity.