Dual-Space Detection of Altermagnetism: A Pathway to Topological Superconductivity

Objetivo

Topological superconductors represent a paradigm shift in overcoming quantum decoherence, the primary obstacle limiting today's quantum computers. They host exotic quantum particles that can store information within their topology and remain robust against local perturbations. There has been no material platform to exhibit topological superconductivity (TSC) at practical temperatures. This project will experimentally realize a new pathway to TSC through altermagnetism (AM).

Altermagnetism is a newly discovered third phase of magnetism. Leading theories predict that AMs can lead to TSC state with higher transition temperature because they break time reversal symmetry while preserving zero net momentum. Although many materials are predicted to host AM, the definitive signatures remain elusive and its interplay with superconductivity (SC) has not been achieved. The progress hinges on a fundamental connection between spatially-averaged measurements and atomic-scale mechanisms.

This project will use throughput spectroscopic experiments to screen AM candidates through complementary visualization of spin density in real space and spin-splitting in momentum space (DualSpin). This integration will distinguish AMs from conventional magnets and establish a definitive list of AMs. DualSpin will then search for the exotic odd-parity magnetism. The culmination is to combine AM thin films and SCs into heterostructures to realize TSC.

To achieve these goals, I will develop innovative scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) techniques. DualSpin will incorporate spin-sensitivity into my high-resolution, dual-space spectroscopy to quantitatively detect the definitive signatures of AM.

DualSpin will provide the first and most direct microscopic verification of AM by linking its spin structure to physical properties such as spin currents and magnetic domains. Most excitingly, the interplay of AM with SC will create a new type of TSC that will accelerate future quantum technologies.