Proximity induced superconductivity by Bi in topological $B{i}_{2}T{e}_{2}Se$ and $B{i}_{2}S{e}_3$ films: Evidence for a robust zero energy bound state possibly due to Majorana Fermions

Abstract

Point contact conductance measurements on topological $B{i}_{2}T{e}_{2}Se$ and $B{i}_{2}S{e}_3$ films reveal a signature of superconductivity below 2-3 K. In particular, critical current dips and a robust zero bias conductance peak are observed. The latter suggests the presence of zero energy bound states which could be assigned to Majorana Fermions in an unconventional topological superconductor. We attribute these novel observations to proximity induced local superconductivity in the films by small amounts of superconducting Bi inclusions or segregation to the surface, and provide supportive evidence for these effects.

Accepted for publication in Physical Review B (Dec. 20, 2011), 15 figures. Version V1: arXiv:1111.3445v1 [cond-mat.supr-con] 15 Nov 2011

References in corpus (3)

• Superconducting proximity effect and Majorana fermions at the surface of a topological insulator
• The role of critical current on point contact Andreev Reflection spectrum between a normal metal and a superconductor
• Surface spectral function in the superconducting state of a topological insulator

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