Superconductivity in ZrB<sub>12</sub> under High Pressure

oleh: Zexiao Zhang, Xu Zheng, Hanshan Luo, Chan Gao, Xiaowei Xue, Jingcheng Zhu, Ruobin Li, Changqing Jin, Xiaohui Yu

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2024-09-01

Deskripsi

Transition metal borides have emerged as pivotal players in various fields. In addition to their exceptional properties such as high hardness, a high melting point, and corrosion resistance, certain compounds exhibit remarkable characteristics including superconductivity, magnetism, electrical conductivity, and catalytic activity. Among these compounds, ZrB<sub>12</sub> has garnered significant attention due to its unique physicochemical properties. However, previous research on ZrB<sub>12</sub> has predominantly focused on its mechanical behavior while overlooking the electron-electron interactions of the superconducting state. In this paper, resistance characterization of ZrB<sub>12</sub> under high-pressure conditions was conducted to further investigate its superconductivity. Our research findings indicate that ZrB<sub>12</sub> maintains its superconductivity within a pressure range of 0 to 1.5 GPa and is classified as a type 2 superconductor. Additionally, the results confirm the anisotropic nature of ZrB<sub>12</sub>’s superconductivity. As the pressure increases, the superconducting transition temperature undergoes a gradual decrease. Remarkably, ZrB<sub>12</sub> exhibits metallic behavior under pressures up to 31.4 GPa. The observed decline in superconductivity in ZrB<sub>12</sub> can be ascribed to the intensified influence of Zr’s movement on phonon dispersion, ultimately leading to a reduction in carrier concentration.