“Vortex-vortex interaction in bulk superconductors : Ginzburg-Landau theory”. Chaves A, Peeters FM, Farias GA, Milošević, MV, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 054516 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.054516
Abstract: The vortex-vortex interaction potential in bulk superconductors is calculated within the Ginzburg-Landau (GL) theory and is obtained from a numerical solution of a set of two coupled nonlinear GL differential equations for the vector potential and the superconducting order parameter, where the merger of vortices into a giant vortex is allowed. Further, the interaction potentials between a vortex and a giant vortex and between a vortex and an antivortex are obtained for both type-I and type-II superconductors. Our numerical results agree asymptotically with the analytical expressions for large intervortex separations that are available in the literature. We propose empirical expressions valid over the full interaction range, which are fitted to our numerical data for different values of the GL parameter.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 31
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.054516
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“Extended Ginzburg-Landau formalism for two-band superconductors”. Shanenko AA, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review letters 106, 047005 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.106.047005
Abstract: Recent observation of unusual vortex patterns in MgB2 single crystals raised speculations about possible type-1.5 superconductivity in two-band materials, mixing the properties of both type-I and type-II superconductors. However, the strict application of the standard two-band Ginzburg-Landau (GL) theory results in simply proportional order parameters of the two bandsand does not support the type-1.5 behavior. Here we derive the extended GL formalism (accounting all terms of the next order over the small τ=1-T/Tc parameter) for a two-band clean s-wave superconductor and show that the two condensates generally have different spatial scales, with the difference disappearing only in the limit T→Tc. The extended version of the two-band GL formalism improves the validity of GL theory below Tc and suggests revisiting the earlier calculations based on the standard model.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 84
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.106.047005
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“Vortex manipulation in superconducting films with tunable magnetic topology”. Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Jankó, B, Superconductor science and technology 24, 024001 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0953-2048/24/2/024001
Abstract: Using a combination of the phenomenological GinzburgLandau theory and micromagnetic simulations, we study properties of a superconducting film with an array of soft magnetic dots on top. An external in-plane magnetic field gradually drives the magnets from an out-of-plane or magnetic vortex state to an in-plane single-domain state, which changes spatially the distribution of the superconducting condensate. If induced by the magnets, the vortexantivortex molecules exhibit rich transitions as a function of the applied in-plane field. At the same time, we show how the magnetic dots act as very effective dynamic pinning centers for vortices in an applied perpendicular magnetic field.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.878
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1088/0953-2048/24/2/024001
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“Second-order multiple-quanta flux entry into a perforated spherical mesoscopic superconductor”. Xu B, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 82, 214501 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.82.214501
Abstract: Flux entry in type-II superconductors without prominent symmetry is a first-order phase transition, where flux enters conventionally gradual in units of a flux quantum. Here we show that neither is necessarily the case in a mesoscopic superconducting sphere with a perforation. In axially applied magnetic field, vortices initially occupy the hole, and can oppose further flux entry in the sample. As a result, multiple-quanta flux entry is found at significantly higher field, and it can manifest as a second-order transition due to suppressed geometric barrier at the equatorial belt of the sample. At high fields a new state is found, with gradually destroyed condensate from the equator inwards, the exact opposite of surface superconductivity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.82.214501
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“Anisotropic superconductivity and vortex dynamics in magnetically coupled F/S and F/S/F hybrids”. Karapetrov G, Belkin A, Iavarone M, Fedor J, Novosad V, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Journal of superconductivity and novel magnetism 24, 905 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10948-010-0880-z
Abstract: Magnetically coupled superconductorferromagnet hybrids offer advanced routes for nanoscale control of superconductivity. Magnetotransport characteristics and scanning tunneling microscopy images of vortex structures in superconductorferromagnet hybrids reveal rich superconducting phase diagrams. Focusing on a particular combination of a ferromagnet with a well-ordered periodic magnetic domain structure with alternating out-of-plane component of magnetization, and a small coherence length superconductor, we find directed nucleation of superconductivity above the domain wall boundaries. We show that near the superconductor-normal state phase boundary the superconductivity is localized in narrow mesoscopic channels. In order to explore the Abrikosov flux line ordering in F/S hybrids, we use a combination of scanning tunneling microscopy and GinzburgLandau simulations. The magnetic stripe domain structure induces periodic local magnetic induction in the superconductor, creating a series of pinninganti-pinning channels for externally added magnetic flux quanta. Such laterally confined Abrikosov vortices form quasi-1D arrays (chains). The transitions between multichain states occur through propagation of kinks at the intermediate fields. At high fields we show that the system becomes nonlinear due to a change in both the number of vortices and the confining potential. In F/S/F hybrids we demonstrate the evolution of the anisotropic conductivity in the superconductor that is magnetically coupled with two adjacent ferromagnetic layers. Stripe magnetic domain structures in both F-layers are aligned under each other, resulting in a directional superconducting order parameter in the superconducting layer. The conductance anisotropy strongly depends on the period of the magnetic domains and the strength of the local magnetization. The anisotropic conductivity of up to three orders of magnitude can be achieved with a spatial critical temperature modulation of 5% of T c. Induced anisotropic properties in the F/S and F/S/F hybrids have a potential for future application in switching and nonvolatile memory elements operating at low temperatures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.18
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1007/s10948-010-0880-z
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“Analytic treatment of vortex states in cylindrical superconductors in applied axial magnetic field”. Ludu A, Van Deun J, Milošević, MV, Cuyt A, Peeters FM, Journal of mathematical physics 51, 082903 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3470767
Abstract: We solve the linear GinzburgLandau (GL) equation in the presence of a uniform magnetic field with cylindrical symmetry and we find analytic expressions for the eigenfunctions in terms of the confluent hypergeometric functions. The discrete spectrum results from an implicit equation associated to the boundary conditions and it is resolved in analytic form using the continued fractions formalism. We study the dependence of the spectrum and the eigenfunctions on the sample size and the surface conditions for solid and hollow cylindrical superconductors. Finally, the solutions of the nonlinear GL formalism are constructed as expansions in the linear GL eigenfunction basis and selected by minimization of the free energy. We present examples of vortex states and their energies for different samples in enhancing/suppressing superconductivity surroundings.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.077
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1063/1.3470767
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“Vortex matter in mesoscopic two-gap superconducting disks: influence of Josephson and magnetic coupling”. Geurts R, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 15 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.214514
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 89
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.214514
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“Vortex manipulation in a superconducting matrix with view on applications”. Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Applied physics letters 96, 192501 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3425672
Abstract: We show how a single flux quantum can be effectively manipulated in a superconducting film with a matrix of blind holes. Such a sample can serve as a basic memory element, where the position of the vortex in a k×l matrix of pinning sites defines the desired combination of n bits of information (2n = k×l). Vortex placement is achieved by strategically applied current and the resulting position is read out via generated voltage between metallic contacts on the sample. Such a device can also act as a controllable source of a nanoengineered local magnetic field for, e.g., spintronics applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1063/1.3425672
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“Vortices induced in a superconducting loop by asymmetric kinetic inductance and their detection in transport measurements”. Berdiyorov GR, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 144511 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.144511
Abstract: Using time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau theory, we study the dynamic properties of a rectangular superconducting loop, which are found to depend on the position of the current leads. For asymmetric positioning of the leads, different kinetic inductance of the two paths for injected electric current leads to different critical conditions in the two branches. System self-regulates by allowing vortex entry, as vortex currents bring equilibration between the two current flows and the conventional resistive state can be realized. We also demonstrate that individual vortex entry in the loop can be detected by measuring the voltage between normal-metal leads, for applied currents comparable in magnitude to the screening currents.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.144511
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“Dynamics of kinematic vortices in a mesoscopic superconducting loop”. Berdiyorov GR, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physica: C : superconductivity 470, 946 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.physc.2010.02.028
Abstract: Using the time-dependent GinzburgLandau formalism, we study the dynamic properties of a submicron superconducting loop in applied current and in presence of a perpendicular magnetic field. The resistive state of the sample is caused by the motion of kinematic vortexantivortex pairs. Vortices and antivortices move in opposite directions to each other, perpendicularly to the applied drive, and the periodic creation and annihilation of such pairs results in periodic oscillations of the voltage across the sample. The dynamics of these kinematic pairs is strongly influenced by the applied magnetic field, which for high fields leads to the flow of just vortices. Kinematic vortices can be temporarily pinned inside the loop with observable trace in the voltage vs. time characteristics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.404
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1016/j.physc.2010.02.028
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“Freezing vortex rivers”. Silhanek AV, Kramer RGB, van de Vondel J, Moshchalkov VV, Milošević, MV, Berdiyorov GR, Peeters FM, Luccas RF, Puig T, Physica: C : superconductivity 470, 726 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.physc.2010.02.072
Abstract: We demonstrate experimentally and theoretically that the dissipative state at high current densities of superconducting samples with a periodic array of holes consist of flux rivers resulting from a short range attractive interaction between vortices. This dynamically induced vortexvortex attraction results from the migration of quasiparticles out of the vortex core. We have directly visualized the formation of vortex chains by scanning Hall microscopy after freezing the dynamic state by a field cooling procedure at constant bias current. Similar experiments carried out in a sample without holes show no hint of flux river formation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.404
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/j.physc.2010.02.072
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“The Ginzburg-Landau theory in application”. Milošević, MV, Geurts R, Physica: C : superconductivity 470, 791 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.physc.2010.02.056
Abstract: A numerical approach to GinzburgLandau (GL) theory is demonstrated and we review its applications to several examples of current interest in the research on superconductivity. This analysis also shows the applicability of the two-dimensional approach to thin superconductors and the re-defined effective GL parameter κ. For two-gap superconductors, the conveniently written GL equations directly show that the magnetic behavior of the sample depends not just on the GL parameter of two bands, but also on the ratio of respective coherence lengths.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.404
Times cited: 66
DOI: 10.1016/j.physc.2010.02.056
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“Calorimetric properties of mesoscopic superconducting disks, rings, and cylinders”. Xu B, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 064501 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.064501
Abstract: The thermal signatures of superconductivity in mesoscopic disks, rings and cylinders are calculated within the Ginzburg-Landau theory. In an applied perpendicular magnetic field H the heat capacity of mesoscopic samples shows a strong dependence on the realized vortex state; discontinuities are found at the critical field for different vorticities, as well as at the superconducting-to-normal state transition. The same applies to the intermediate state of type-I superconductors. Even the subtle changes in the fluxoid distribution inside the sample leave clear signatures on heat capacity, which is particularly useful for fully three-dimensional samples whose interior is often inaccessible by magnetometry. The heat-capacity jump ΔC(H) at the critical temperature exhibits quasiperiodic modulations as a function of magnetic field. In mesoscopic superconducting rings, these oscillations provide calorimetric verification of the Little-Parks effect.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.064501
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“Guided nucleation of superconductivity on a graded magnetic substrate”. Milošević, MV, Gillijns W, Silhanek AV, Libál A, Peeters FM, Moshchalkov VV, Applied physics letters 96, 032503 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3293300
Abstract: We demonstrate the controlled spatial nucleation of superconductivity in a thin film deposited on periodic arrays of ferromagnetic dots with gradually increasing diameter. The perpendicular magnetization of the dots induces vortex-antivortex molecules in the sample, with the number of (anti)vortices increasing with magnet size. The resulting gradient of antivortex density between the dots predetermines local nucleation of superconductivity in the sample as a function of the applied external field and temperature. In addition, the compensation between the applied magnetic field and the antivortices results in an unprecedented enhancement of the critical temperature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1063/1.3293300
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“Formation of stripelike flux patterns obtained by freezing kinematic vortices in a superconducting Pb film”. Silhanek AV, Milošević, MV, Kramer RBG, Berdiyorov GR, Vondel van de J, Luccas RF, Puig T, Peeters FM, Moshchalkov VV, Physical review letters 104 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.017001
Abstract: We demonstrate experimentally and theoretically that the dissipative state of superconducting samples with a periodic array of holes at high current densities consists of flux rivers resulting from a short-range attractive interaction between vortices. This dynamically induced vortex-vortex attraction results from the migration of quasiparticles out of the vortex core (kinematic vortices). We have directly visualized the formation of vortex chains by scanning Hall probe microscopy after freezing the dynamic state by a field cooling procedure at a constant bias current. Similar experiments carried out in a sample without holes show no hint of flux river formation. We shed light on this nonequilibrium phenomena modeled by time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau simulations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 60
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.017001
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“Tunable kinematics of phase-slip lines in a superconducting stripe with magnetic dots”. Berdiyorov GR, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 80, 214509 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.80.214509
Abstract: Using numerical simulations, we study the dynamic properties of a superconducting stripe with a perpendicular magnetized ferromagnet on top in the presence of an applied dc current. In the resistive state conventional phase-slip lines are transformed into kinematic vortex-antivortex pairs with special dynamic behavior. In addition, the location of phase slippage in the sample is predetermined by the position of the magnetic dot. Both these effects directly influence the dynamics of the superconducting condensate and lead to periodic oscillations of the voltage across the sample with a frequency tunable both by the applied current and by the magnetization of the magnet. We found that the frequency of the voltage oscillations increases with increasing number of magnetic dots.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.80.214509
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“Local current injection into mesoscopic superconductors for the manipulation of quantum states”. Milošević, MV, Kanda A, Hatsumi S, Peeters FM, Ootuka Y, Physical review letters 103, 217003 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.103.217003
Abstract: We perform strategic current injection in a small mesoscopic superconductor and control the (non)equilibrium quantum states in an applied homogeneous magnetic field. In doing so, we realize a current-driven splitting of multiquanta vortices, current-induced transitions between states with different angular momenta, and current-controlled switching between otherwise degenerate quantum states. These fundamental phenomena form the basis for the electronic and logic applications discussed, and are confirmed in both theoretical simulations and multiple-small-tunnel-junction transport measurements.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 48
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.103.217003
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“Continuum versus discrete flux behaviour in large mesoscopic Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+\delta disks”. Connolly MR, Bemding SJ, Milošević, MV, Clem JR, Tamegai T, Physica: C : superconductivity 470, S896 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.physc.2009.11.117
Abstract: We have used scanning Hall probe and local Hall magnetometry measurements to map flux profiles in superconducting Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ disks whose diameters span the crossover between the bulk and mesoscopic vortex regimes. The behaviour of large disks (greater-or-equal, slanted20 μm diameter) is well described by analytic models that assume a continuous distribution of flux in the sample. Small disks (less-than-or-equals, slant10 μm diameter), on the other hand, exhibit clear signatures of the underlying discrete vortex structure as well as competition between triangular Abrikosov ordering and the formation of shell structures driven by interactions with circulating edge currents. At low fields we are able to directly observe the characteristic mesoscopic compression of vortex clusters which is linked to oscillations in the diameter of the vortex dome in increasing magnetic fields. At higher fields, where single vortex resolution is lost, we are still able to track configurational changes in the vortex patterns, since competing vortex orders impose unmistakable signatures on local magnetisation curves. Our observations are in excellent agreement with molecular-dynamics numerical simulations which lead us to a natural definition of the lengthscale for the crossover between discrete and continuum behaviour in our system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.404
DOI: 10.1016/j.physc.2009.11.117
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“Transverse instabilities of multiple vortex chains in magnetically coupled NbSe2/permalloy superconductor/ferromagnet bilayers”. Karapetrov G, Milošević, MV, Iavarone M, Fedor J, Belkin A, Novosad V, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 80, 180506 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.80.180506
Abstract: Using scanning tunneling microscopy and Ginzburg-Landau simulations, we explore vortex configurations in magnetically coupled NbSe2/permalloy superconductor/ferromagnet bilayer. The permalloy film with stripe domain structure induces periodic local magnetic induction in the superconductor, creating a series of pinning-antipinning channels for externally added magnetic flux quanta. Such laterally confined Abrikosov vortices form quasi-one-dimensional arrays (chains). The transitions between multichain states occur through propagation of kinks at the intermediate fields. At high fields we show that the system becomes nonlinear due to a change in both the number of vortices and the confining potential. The longitudinal instabilities of the resulting vortex structures lead to vortices levitating in the antipinning channels.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 38
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.80.180506
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“Magnetic flux periodicity in mesoscopic d-wave symmetric and asymmetric superconducting loops”. Zha G-Q, Milošević, MV, Zhou S-P, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 80, 144501 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.80.144501
Abstract: The magnetic flux dependence of energy and supercurrent in mesoscopic d-wave symmetric and asymmetric superconducting loops is investigated by numerically solving the Bogoliubov-de Gennes equations self-consistently. For square loops, we find an hc/e-flux periodicity in energy and supercurrent and demonstrate that the flux periodicity is sensitive to the hole size and the superconducting pairing strength as well as temperature. The hc/2e-periodic behavior can be restored almost entirely when we displace the central hole sufficiently out of the center of the sample. In rectangular loops, the discrete current-carrying low-energy spectrum can exist for an odd winding number of the order parameter.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.80.144501
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“Kinematic vortex-antivortex lines in strongly driven superconducting stripes”. Berdiyorov GR, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 19, 184506 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.79.184506
Abstract: In the framework of the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau formalism, we study the resistive state of a submicron superconducting stripe in the presence of a longitudinal current. Sufficiently strong current leads to phase slippage between the leads, which is manifested as oppositely charged kinematic vortices moving in opposite directions perpendicular to applied drive. Depending on the distribution of superconducting current density the vortex-antivortex either nucleate in the middle of the stripe and are expelled laterally or enter on opposite sides of the sample and are driven together to annihilation. We distinguish between the two scenarios as a function of relevant parameters and show how the creation/annihilation point of the vortex-antivortex and their individual velocity can be manipulated by applied magnetic field and current.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 75
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.79.184506
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“Second generation of vortex-antivortex states in mesoscopic superconductors: stabilization by artificial pinning”. Geurts R, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 79, 174508 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.79.174508
Abstract: Antagonistic symmetries of superconducting polygons and their induced multivortex states in a homogeneous magnetic field may lead to the appearance of antivortices in the vicinity of the superconducting/normal-state boundary (where mesoscopic confinement is particularly strong). Resulting vortex-antivortex (V-Av) molecules match the sample symmetry but are extremely sensitive to defects and fluctuations and remain undetected experimentally. Here we show that V-Av states can reappear deep in the superconducting state due to an array of perforations in a polygonal setting, surrounding a central hole. Such states are no longer caused by the symmetry of the sample but rather by pinning itself, which prevents the vortex-antivortex annihilation. As a result, even micron size, clearly spaced V-Av molecules can be stabilized in large mesoscopic samples.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.79.174508
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“Geometry-guided flux behaviour in superconducting Pb microcrystals”. Engbarth M, Milošević, MV, Bending SJ, Nasirpouri F, Journal of physics : conference series 150, 052048 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/150/5/052048
Abstract: Electrochemistry offers highly flexible routes to fabrication of a wide variety of mesostructures, including three-dimensional (3D) crystallites, thin films and nanowires. Using this method we have grown various 3D superconducting Pb mesostructures with vastly different morphologies. We present here results on a truncated(half)-icosahedron with a hexagonal base and a tripod structure with a triangular base. Using Hall probe magnetometry we have obtained magnetisation curves for these structures at several temperatures and see evidence of geometry-driven flux entry and exit as well as flux trapping caused by specific sample geometries. We also observe behaviour that we interpret in terms of the formation of giant vortices, bearing in mind that bulk Pb is a type-I superconducting material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/150/5/052048
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“Vortex-antivortex 'molecular crystals' in hybrid ferromagnet/superconductor structures”. Bending SJ, Neal JS, Milošević, MV, Potenza A, san Emeterio L, Marrows CH, Journal of physics : conference series 150, 052019 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/150/5/052019
Abstract: We have used high resolution Hall probe microscopy to image vortex-antivortex (V-AV) 'molecules' induced in superconducting Pb films by the stray fields from square arrays of ferromagnetic Co/Pt dots. We have directly observed spontaneous V-AV pairs and studied how they interact with added 'free' (anti)fluxons in an applied magnetic field. We observe a rich variety of subtle phenomena arising from competing symmetries in our system which can either drive added antivortices to join AV shells around nanomagnets or stabilise the translationally symmetric AV lattice between the dots. Added vortices annihilate AV shells, leading eventually to a stable 'nulling' state with no free fluxons, which should exhibit a strongly (field-)enhanced critical current. At higher densities we actually observe vortex shells around the magnets, stabilised by the asymmetric anti-pinning potential. Our experimental findings are in good agreement with Ginzburg-Landau calculations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/150/5/052019
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“Vortex 'puddles' and magic vortex numbers in mesoscopic superconducting disks”. Connolly MR, Milošević, MV, Bending SJ, Clem JR, Tamegai T, Journal of physics : conference series 150, 052039 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/150/5/052039
Abstract: The magnetic properties of a superconducting disk change dramatically when its dimensions become mesoscopic. Unlike large disks, where the screening currents induced by an applied magnetic field are strong enough to force vortices to accumulate in a 'puddle' at the centre, in a mesoscopic disk the interaction between one of these vortices and the edge currents can be comparable to the intervortex repulsion, resulting in a destruction of the ordered triangular vortex lattice structure at the centre. Vortices instead form clusters which adopt polygonal and shell-like structures which exhibit magic number states similar to those of charged particles in a confining potential, and electrons in artificial atoms. We have fabricated mesoscopic high temperature superconducting Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ disks and investigated their magnetic properties using magneto-optical imaging (MOI) and high resolution scanning Hall probe microscopy (SHPM). The temperature dependence of the vortex penetration field measured using MOI is in excellent agreement with models of the thermal excitation of pancake vortices over edge barriers. The growth of the central vortex puddle has been directly imaged using SHPM and magic vortex numbers showing higher stability have been correlated with abrupt jumps in the measured local magnetisation curves.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/150/5/052039
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“Composite vortex ordering in superconducting films with arrays of blind holes”. Berdiyorov GR, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, New journal of physics 11, 013025 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013025
Abstract: The pinning properties of a superconducting thin film with a square array of blind holes are studied using the nonlinear GinzburgLandau theory. Although blind holes provide a weaker pinning potential than holes (also called antidots), several novel vortex structures are predicted for different size and thickness of the blind holes. Orientational dimer and trimer vortex states as well as concentric vortex shells can nucleate in the blind holes. In addition, we predict the stabilization of giant vortices that may be located both in the pinning centers and/or at the interstitial sites, as well as the combination of giant vortices with sets of individual vortices. For large blind holes, local vortex shell structures inside the blind holes may transfer their symmetry to interstitial vortices as well. The subtle interplay of shell formation and traditional Abrikosov vortex lattices inside the blind holes is also studied for different numbers of trapped vortices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.786
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013025
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“Continuum vs. discrete flux behaviour in large mesoscopic Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+\delta disks”. Connolly MR, Milošević, MV, Bending SJ, Clem JR, Tamegai T, Europhysics letters 85, 17008 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1209/0295-5075/85/17008
Abstract: Scanning Hall probe and local Hall magnetometry measurements have been used to investigate flux distributions in large mesoscopic superconducting disks with sizes that lie near the crossover between the bulk and mesoscopic vortex regimes. Results obtained by directly mapping the magnetic induction profiles of the disks at different applied fields can be quite successfully fitted to analytic models which assume a continuous distribution of flux in the sample. At low fields, however, we do observe clear signatures of the underlying discrete vortex structure and can resolve the characteristic mesoscopic compression of vortex clusters in increasing magnetic fields. Even at higher fields, where single-vortex resolution is lost, we are still able to track configurational changes in the vortex patterns, since competing vortex orders impose unmistakable signatures on “local” magnetisation curves as a function of the applied field. Our observations are in excellent agreement with molecular-dynamics numerical simulations which lead us to a natural definition of the lengthscale for the crossover between discrete and continuum behaviours in our system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.957
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1209/0295-5075/85/17008
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“Vortex matter in oblate mesoscopic superconductors with a hole: broken symmetry vortex states and multi-vortex entry”. Xu B, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, New journal of physics 11, 013020 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013020
Abstract: Using three-dimensional (3D) numerical discretization of the GinzburgLandau (GL) equations, we investigate the superconducting state of a sphere with a piercing hole in the presence of a magnetic field. In the case of samples with central perforation, in axially applied homogeneous magnetic field, we realized unconventional vortex states of broken symmetry due to complex, 3D competing interactions, which depend on the GL parameter ê. For certain sizes of the sample, non-hysteretic multi-vortex entry and exit is predicted with the non-existence of some vorticities as stable states. In a tilted magnetic field, we studied the gradual transformation of 3D flux patterns into 1D vortex chains, where vortices align along the perforation, and the evolvement of the multi-vortex entry as well. We analyze the flux-guiding ability of the hole in a tilted field, which leads to fractional flux response in magnetization M(H) curves.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.786
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013020
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“Spontaneous vortex phases in superconductor-ferromagnet Pb-Co nanocomposite films”. Xing YT, Micklitz H, Rappoport TG, Milošević, MV, Solorzano-Naranjo IG, Baggio-Saitovitch E, Physical review : B : solid state 78, 224524 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.78.224524
Abstract: We report measurements which indicate the appearance of spontaneous vortices in lead superconducting films with embedded magnetic nanoparticles and a temperature-induced phase transition between different vortex phases. Unlike common vortices in superconductors, the vortex phase appears in the absence of applied magnetic field. The vortices nucleate exclusively due to the stray field of the magnetic nanoparticles, which serve the dual role of providing the internal field and simultaneously acting as pinning centers. Transport measurements reveal dynamical phase transitions that depend on temperature (T) and applied field (H) and support the obtained H-T phase diagram.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.78.224524
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“A scanning Hall probe microscope for high resolution magnetic imaging down to 300 mK”. Khotkevych VV, Milošević, MV, Bending SJ, The review of scientific instruments 79, 123708 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3046285
Abstract: We present the design, construction, and performance of a low-temperature scanning Hall probe microscope with submicron lateral resolution and a large scanning range. The detachable microscope head is mounted on the cold flange of a commercial 3He-refrigerator (Oxford Instruments, Heliox VT-50) and operates between room temperature and 300 mK. It is fitted with a three-axis slip-stick nanopositioner that enables precise in situ adjustment of the probe location within a 6×6×7 mm3 space. The local magnetic induction at the sample surface is mapped with an easily changeable microfabricated Hall probe [typically GsAs/AlGaAs or AlGaAs/InGaAs/GaAs Hall sensors with integrated scanning tunnel microscopy (STM) tunneling tips] and can achieve minimum detectable fields 10 mG/Hz1/2. The Hall probe is brought into very close proximity to the sample surface by sensing and controlling tunnel currents at the integrated STM tip. The instrument is capable of simultaneous tunneling and Hall signal acquisition in surface-tracking mode. We illustrate the potential of the system with images of superconducting vortices at the surface of a Nb thin film down to 372 mK, and also of labyrinth magnetic-domain patterns of an yttrium iron garnet film captured at room temperature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.515
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1063/1.3046285
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