Predicted nucleation of domain walls in p(x)+ip(y) superconductors by a Z(2) symmetry-breaking transition in external magnetic fields

Phys Rev Lett. 2013 Oct 25;111(17):177001. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.111.177001. Epub 2013 Oct 24.

Abstract

We show that time reversal symmetry-breaking p(x)+ip(y) wave superconductors undergo several phase transitions subjected to an external magnetic field or supercurrent. In such a system, the discrete Z(2) symmetry can recover before a complete destruction of the order parameter. The domain walls associated with Z(2) symmetry can be created in a controllable way by a magnetic field or current sweep according to the Kibble-Zurek scenario. Such domain wall generation can take place in exotic superconductors like Sr(2)RuO(4), thin films of superfluid (3)He-A, and some heavy fermion compounds.