Expanded quantum vortex liquid regimes in the electron nematic superconductors FeSe1−xSx and FeSe1−xTex

Abstract

The quantum vortex liquid (QVL) is an intriguing state of type-II superconductors in which intense quantum fluctuations of the superconducting (SC) order parameter destroy the Abrikosov lattice even at very low temperatures. Such a state has only rarely been observed, however, and remains poorly understood. One of the key questions is the precise origin of such intense quantum fluctuations and the role of nearby non-SC phases or quantum critical points in amplifying these effects. Here we report a high-field magnetotransport study of FeSe_1−xS_x and FeSe_1−xTe_x which show a broad QVL regime both within and beyond their respective electron nematic phases. A clear correlation is found between the extent of the QVL and the strength of the superconductivity. This comparative study enables us to identify the essential elements that promote the QVL regime in unconventional superconductors and to demonstrate that the QVL regime itself is most extended wherever superconductivity is weakest.

In a quantum vortex liquid, the superconducting vortex lattice is melted by quantum fluctuations instead of thermal fluctuations. Here, the authors present high-field magnetotransport measurements of FeSe_1−xS_x and FeSe_1−xTe_x, which provide evidence for a broad quantum vortex liquid regime.