Nodal Order Parameter in Electron-Doped Superconducting Films Pr(2-x)Ce(x)CuO(4-y) (x=0.13, 0.15 and 0.17)

TL;DR

This study measures the London penetration depth in electron-doped Pr(2-x)Ce(x)CuO(4-y) thin films at various doping levels, revealing power law behavior indicative of nodal superconducting gaps.

Contribution

It provides experimental evidence of nodal superconducting gaps in Pr(2-x)Ce(x)CuO(4-y) films across different doping levels using precise penetration depth measurements.

Findings

Power law behavior of lambda_ab(T) suggests nodal gaps.

Consistent results across doping levels and field orientations.

Measurements extend down to 0.35 K.

Abstract

The London penetration depth, lambda{ab}(T), is reported for thin films of the electron-doped superconductor Pr{2-x}Ce{x}CuO{4-y} at three doping levels (x = 0.13, 0.15 and 0.17). Measurements down to 0.35 K were carried out using a tunnel diode oscillator with excitation fields applied both perpendicular and parallel to the conducting planes. For all samples and both field orientations lambda{ab}(T) showed power law behavior implying a superconducting gap with nodes.