Structure of an Elastic Lattice Pinned by Hopping Defects

TL;DR

This paper investigates how hopping defects influence the order in a 3D lattice, proposing a possible glass-to-crystal transition driven by defect dynamics relevant to high-temperature superconductor flux lattices.

Contribution

It introduces a model linking hopping defect rates to phase transitions in elastic lattices, suggesting a new mechanism for order change in superconducting materials.

Findings

Transition from glass to crystal state depends on hopping defect rate

Hopping defects can induce long-range order in the lattice

Potential relevance to flux lattice behavior in high-temperature superconductors

Abstract

The translational order in a three-dimensional lattice pinned by hopping defects is studied. It is suggested that the equilibrium state of the lattice crosses from a glass to a crystal on the rate of hopping. It is argued that such a transition may exist in flux lattices of high-temperature superconductors due to the hopping of oxygen.