Feynman path-integral approach to the QED3 theory of the pseudogap

TL;DR

This paper explores a novel path-integral method to connect vortex condensation in d-wave superconductors with the QED3 gauge theory of the pseudogap, avoiding traditional gauge transformations.

Contribution

It introduces a new approach using the universal covering space to analyze gauge transformations in vortex-condensed superconductors.

Findings

Provides a new theoretical framework linking vortex condensation and QED3.

Circumvents limitations of standard gauge transformations in multiply-connected manifolds.

Enhances understanding of the pseudogap phase in high-temperature superconductors.

Abstract

In this work the connection between vortex condensation in a d-wave superconductor and the QED$_3$ gauge theory of the pseudogap is elucidated. The approach taken circumvents the use of the standard Franz-Tesanovic gauge transformation, borrowing ideas from the path-integral analysis of the Aharonov-Bohm problem. An essential feature of this approach is that gauge-transformations which are prohibited on a particular multiply-connected manifold (e.g. a superconductor with vortices) can be successfully performed on the universal covering space associated with that manifold.