Finite-momentum superconducting states due to odd-frequency Cooper pairing correlations

Abstract

This paper discusses the origin of a nonuniform superconducting state in which Cooper pairs have a small but finite center-of-mass momentum. We analyze the instability of the normal state to such finite-momentum states using the pole of the pair fluctuation propagator in weak-coupling superconductors. The finite-momentum superconducting state is realized when the odd-frequency pairing correlations in the uniform superconducting state are expected to have sufficiently large amplitudes. We provide a perspective for a comprehensive understanding of inhomogeneous superconductivity and related phenomena.