Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: We predict the existence of two tri-critical quantum Lifshitz points in recently discovered d -wave altermagnetic metals subjected to an external magnetic field. These points connect a spatially modulated Fulde–Ferrell–Larkin–Ovchinnikov (FFLO) phase, a uniform polarized Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) superconducting phase, and the normal metallic phase in a nontrivial manner. Depending on whether the FFLO state is primarily induced by the magnetic field or by d -wave altermagnetism, we classify the corresponding Lifshitz points as field-driven or altermagnetism-driven, respectively. Notably, the two types exhibit distinct behaviors: the transition from the FFLO phase to the polarized BCS phase is first-order near the field-driven Lifshitz point, as might be expected, whereas it becomes continuous near the altermagnetism-driven Lifshitz point. We further explore the effects of finite temperature and find that the altermagnetism-driven Lifshitz point is significantly more sensitive to thermal fluctuations.
Source: AAPPS bulletin
Authors: Hui Hu, Xia-Ji Liu
Institution: Swinburne University of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Condensed Matter Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,190
Funder: Australian Research Council
OpenAlex ID: W4416894005