Pairing in graphene-based moiré superlattices

Mathias S. Scheurer; Rhine Samajdar

doi:10.1103/PhysRevResearch.2.033062

paper

Pairing in graphene-based moiré superlattices

arXiv:1906.03258 · doi:10.1103/PhysRevResearch.2.033062

Abstract

We present a systematic classification and analysis of possible pairing instabilities in graphene-based moiré superlattices. Motivated by recent experiments on twisted double-bilayer graphene showing signs of triplet superconductivity, we analyze both singlet and triplet pairing separately, and describe how these two channels behave close to the limit where the system is invariant under separate spin rotations in the two valleys, realizing an SU(2) $_{+}$ $\times$ SU(2) $_{-}$ symmetry. Further, we discuss the conditions under which singlet and triplet can mix via two nearly degenerate transitions, and how the different pairing states behave when an external magnetic field is applied. The consequences of the additional microscopic or emergent approximate symmetries relevant for superconductivity in twisted bilayer graphene and ABC trilayer graphene on hexagonal boron nitride are described in detail. We also analyze which of the pairing states can arise in mean-field theory and study the impact of corrections coming from ferromagnetic fluctuations. For instance, we show that, close to the parameters of mean-field theory, a nematic mixed singlet-triplet state emerges. Our study illustrates that graphene superlattices provide a rich platform for exotic superconducting states, and allow for the admixture of singlet and triplet pairing even in the absence of spin-orbit coupling.

arXiv comment30 pages, 7 figures, 4 tables

Pairing in graphene-based moiré superlattices

Abstract

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