Distinct superconducting states in the pressure-induced metallic structures of the nominal semimetal Bi[subscript 4]Te[subscript 3]
- Sandia
The end members, Bi and Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 3}, of the infinitely adaptive (Bi{sub 2})m(Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 3}){sub n} series of compounds have not only been revealed to be topological insulators under the appropriate conditions, but have also been shown to be superconductors under pressure, suggesting the potential for bulk superconductor-topological-insulator interfaces and associated quantum computing applications. Herein, we report the pressure-dependent evolution of the structure and electrical transport of the nominal semimetal Bi4Te{sub 3}, a member of the (Bi{sub 2})m(Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 3}){sub n} series. Under pressure, Bi4Te{sub 3} undergoes several structural phase transformations, ultimately yielding a metallic body-centered-cubic structure exhibiting superconductivity with a maximum T{sub c} = 8.4 K at 16.2 GPa. The occurrence of structure-dependent superconductivity in Bi{sub 4}Te{sub 3} is remarkably similar to the end members of the (Bi{sub 2})m(Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 3}){sub n} series, intimating a convergence to high-pressure universal behavior that may expose the subtle variations that lead to the topological insulating and superconducting states in these systems.
- Research Organization:
- Argonne National Lab. (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States). Advanced Photon Source (APS)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- NSFDOE - BASIC ENERGY SCIENCESNNSA
- OSTI ID:
- 1026531
- Journal Information:
- Phys. Rev. B, Vol. 84, Issue (9) ; 2011; ISSN 1098-0121
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- ENGLISH
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